Prominent Rabbi Visits Developing Haredi Community in Beit She'an
Rabbi Shragga Steinman, a member of the Council of Torah Sages, visited the growing Lithuanian Haredi community in Beit She'an on Wednesday. As the community's president, Rabbi Steinman delivered a strengthening speech ahead of the High Holy Days and met with residents and Torah scholars.
The visit took place at the Kollel's hall within the "Kol Gila" synagogue, led by the community's rabbi and Kollel head, Rabbi Yehoshua Leib Schechter. Rabbi Steinman emphasized the unique path of the community members and the positive influence of a Torah community on its surroundings, stating that the Torah studied in the Kollel protects the entire city and the land of Israel.
Rabbi Steinman described Beit She'an as an "excellent place" for Torah families and young couples seeking to settle in a Torah-observant environment. The Haredi community in Beit She'an was established about two and a half years ago and currently comprises over 20 families. Additional families have purchased apartments and are in the process of moving, while others are considering joining.
The community's growth is accompanied by expanding Torah and community life, centered around the Kollel. Various community frameworks and support systems are also in place for the families.
Community sources report a significant increase in interest from Torah scholars and young couples looking to move to Beit She'an over the past year. A primary factor is the significantly lower housing prices compared to Haredi cities and central Israel. Three and four-room apartments often sell for between 550,000 and 700,000 shekels, offering young couples a chance to purchase a home without the high down payment typically required in the Haredi housing market.
The community's housing committee notes that the joining process is ongoing, with more families in various stages of purchasing homes and preparing for their move. The community hopes this momentum will facilitate the expansion of Torah and educational institutions, further solidifying the Haredi presence in Beit She'an.
