The Bnei Brak home of baal tzedakah R’ Yissachar Knoll hosted a remarkable asifa of gedolei Yisroel and prominent philanthropists from across kehillos in Eretz Yisroel on behalf of Keren Olam Hatorah. The event was marked by inspiring addresses, stirring niggunim, and a rare and moving scene of gedolim and donors joining hands in a rikud of simchas haTorah.

The evening began with divrei hisorerus from R’ Reuven Wolf, chairman of the Keren, who traveled from the United States specially for the event. R’ Reuven spoke passionately about the unparalleled mesirus nefesh shown by Yidden around the world in supporting lomdei Torah in Eretz HaKodesh.

“We hear from donors abroad who carry this responsibility with tremendous ahavas haTorah,” he said. “And here in Eretz Yisroel, our own baalei tzedakah feel the same obligation: ‘Lamah nigara?’ Tonight we join together to raise the full monthly budget of Keren Olam HaTorah, ensuring that its work continues without interruption.”

The gathering was gripped with silent awe as gedolei Yisroel from all segments of Klal Yisroel then entered together.

Among those present were: Rav Dov Landau; Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch; Rav Don Segal; Rav Avraham Salim; Rav Yaakov Hillel; the Modzhitzer Rebbe; the Sadigura Rebbe; Rav Dovid Cohen; Rav Shimon Galai; Rav Yitzchak Chevroni; and Rav Aharon Kornfeld.

Speaking before the gedolim, R’ Yissachar Knoll, stressed the pressing need for action.  

“We are facing a true מצב חירום for Torah,” he said. “This Keren distributes staggering sums to be machzik Torah in these challenging times. Tonight is a unique opportunity to become genuine partners in sustaining the Olam HaTorah.”

Rav Dov Landau then delivered a powerful address, warning: “If, chas v’shalom, Torah mosdos would be forced to shut their doors, who can imagine what would be?”

Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch followed Rav Dov, saying: “We beg the tzibbur: bring kavod to the Ribbono shel Olam. Give beyond your comfort, beyond your ability. This is how Kavod Shamayim is increased — when Klal Yisroel stretches itself for Torah.”

The final words came from Rav Don Segal, who cried out from the depths of his heart:
“In a generation where they rise up against lomdei Torah with such aggression, we must stand even stronger and increase our support for Torah v’lomdeha.”

The evening concluded with a profoundly moving scene: gedolei Yisroel and leading baalei tzedakah clasping hands and dancing together, celebrating the zechus of supporting Torah.