Israeli Torah Scholars Finalize Submissions for Annual Lottery-Funded Halacha Writing Contest

In synagogues and study halls across Israel, Torah scholars and yeshiva students are completing their submissions for the annual Torah writing contest sponsored by Mifal HaPais, Israel's national lottery. This year’s theme focuses on the complex halachic laws of blessings and their boundaries, covering practical daily issues such as the fundamentals of blessings over enjoyment, unnecessary blessings, blessings over commandments, and specific blessings like Birkat Hamazon and Shehecheyanu.

The initiative encourages deep study and original halachic insights, requiring participants to thoroughly analyze sources and present their findings clearly. Hundreds of high-quality submissions are received annually, making the contest a respected platform for Torah scholarship and creativity. Benny Dreyfus, CEO of Mifal HaPais, emphasized the organization's commitment to supporting spiritual and Torah culture within the broader Israeli public, particularly the Haredi community.

A distinguished rabbinical panel will judge the entries, including Rabbi Hillel Mann, Rabbi Moshe Pinchasi, Rabbi Shalom Spitzer, Rabbi Yaakov Israel Yakovzon, Rabbi Yosef Manet, and Rabbi Avraham Kalmanovitz, with Rabbi Rafael Manet heading the committee. Significant cash prizes await the top contributors: 25,000 shekels for first place, 15,000 for second, and 10,000 for third, alongside honorable mentions for seven additional works.

Mifal HaPais urges participants to finalize and submit their works by the deadline of the 21st of Elul 5786 (Jewish calendar), via an online form or email. Entry forms and contest rules are available at the Or Hachaim bookstore chain in Haredi centers. A dedicated phone line and email support are provided for inquiries.