Prominent Rabbi Urges Public to Complete Prisoner Redemption Fund by Hoshana Rabbah

Influential Rabbi Elimelech Biderman has issued an urgent appeal to the public to complete the mitzvah of redeeming captives, emphasizing that the fund is close to its goal but still requires approximately 500,000 shekels. He specifically requested that the mitzvah be fully realized by Hoshana Rabbah, the final day of the Sukkot festival and a significant date in the Jewish calendar.

Rabbi Biderman expressed gratitude for the widespread response to his previous call in September, stating that the public's participation in the redemption of captives provides immense advocacy for all of Israel during these times. He noted that he typically does not make financial requests of the public, making this second appeal within a short period indicative of the matter's urgency.

He explained that Hoshana Rabbah is the final day of judgment, and he wishes for the Jewish people to approach this day having fulfilled the mitzvah completely. "We want to say before God on Hoshana Rabbah, behold Your people Israel have donated their money and completed the mitzvah of redeeming captives, and certainly, this will bring immense advocacy in all worlds," he stated.

Rabbi Biderman is requesting donations of 1,311 shekels, a sum corresponding to the numerical value of 'saving lives' (Pikuach Nefesh), from those who can contribute to finalize the mitzvah by Hoshana Rabbah. He assured contributors that they would receive immense blessings and see salvation soon, drawing on his lineage and reputation as a spiritual leader whose blessings have helped many.

With only a few days remaining until Hoshana Rabbah, the remaining sum is still substantial, and the appeal highlights the critical need for public participation to complete this important mitzvah.