Holocaust Survivor, Soviet Prisoner, and Hamas Hostage Unite to Share Jewish Resilience
During the intermediate days of the Sukkot holiday, the "Or Olam" center in Bnei Brak will host a unique event bringing together three individuals who survived distinct periods of persecution in Jewish history. The event, titled "Under Your Wings," will feature Rabbi Avigdor Neuman, a Holocaust survivor who bears the number tattooed on his arm; Rabbi Yosef Mendelevitch, a "prisoner of Zion" who endured 11 years in Soviet prisons and labor camps; and Segev Kalfon, who was held captive by Hamas in Gaza.
Moderated by Rabbi Yisrael Goldwasser, the three men will share their personal experiences of persecution, captivity, and the unwavering faith that sustained them. Rabbi Neuman will recount his time in Auschwitz, including instances of observing Jewish rituals like donning tefillin amidst the horrors. Rabbi Mendelevitch will describe his upbringing under Soviet rule, his eventual embrace of Judaism, and his struggle to maintain his faith during his lengthy imprisonment in harsh conditions, including in the Ural Mountains.
Segev Kalfon, abducted on October 7th and held in Hamas tunnels, will detail his harrowing experience and the moments he faced death. He will also speak about the six hostages who shared his tunnel captivity, finding common ground in prayer, Kiddush, Shabbat songs, and faith despite their diverse backgrounds. Kalfon will share reflections on the approach of Yom Kippur during his captivity and the importance of faith for the hostages.
The event aims to connect these disparate yet resonant narratives, highlighting how Jewish identity and faith served as anchors during extreme adversity. Rabbi Chanoch Zvi Rubinstein, chairman of "Or Olam," emphasized that hearing these stories from Nazi Germany's barbed wire, KGB prisons, and Gaza's terror tunnels will reveal the universal language of faith that unites the Jewish heart across different eras and circumstances.
The "Or Olam" center, dedicated to preserving and transmitting stories of sanctification of God's name and self-sacrifice, views this event as having immense documentary value. The unique gathering will take place on Wednesday, October 19th, at the Vagshal Hall in Bnei Brak at 6:00 PM. The event, costing 60 NIS, is intended for men and will include moving documentation and exhibits. "Or Olam" hopes the event will leave a lasting impression.
