Stolen Torah Scroll Returned to Haifa Synagogue After Public Appeal

A Torah scroll that went missing from a Chabad house in Haifa's German Colony neighborhood has been returned, nearly two weeks after its disappearance. The scroll, the only kosher one at the synagogue, vanished during the Shabbat of Parshat Nitzavim-Vayelech, causing significant distress ahead of the High Holidays.

Initially, police stated the scroll was located and returned, suggesting it was not a theft. However, the Chabad house maintained it was stolen, with Rabbi Tzvi Gaglula telling Bخدרי חרדים that the premises were locked, implying entry through a window. The rabbi expressed concern about the lack of a Torah for Rosh Hashanah prayers.

The situation took a turn when a Jewish man, who saw reports of the missing scroll, contacted Rabbi Gaglula. He explained that he had encountered a non-Jewish individual possessing the Torah scroll and recognized it as the one stolen from the Chabad house. Using his own funds, the man purchased the scroll with the intention of returning it.

Upon the scroll's return, the Chabad house offered to reimburse the man for his expense, but he refused, stating he acted purely to ensure the scroll's return to its rightful place. Rabbi Gaglula described the event as a "miracle," praising the man's swift action and selfless dedication. The return of the scroll, especially before Yom Kippur, has brought immense joy and gratitude to the congregation, who had been using a borrowed scroll for Rosh Hashanah services.