A formal ceremony at the home of Rabbi Yitzchak Yosef, the Sephardi chief rabbi and president of the Council of Torah Sages, marked the certification of dozens of young married scholars who completed a demanding exam in the laws of kosher STaM, the writing of Torah scrolls, tefillin and mezuzot. The event was organized by the STaM LeShem institute, headed by Rabbi Daniel Bakshi and Rabbi Shlomo Hansev.
About 30 people attended, including institute students, rabbis and public figures. The atmosphere was described as emotional and impressive, as the graduates were recognized after months of intensive study and memorization of detailed halachic rules.
Yosef met personally with each successful candidate, praised their deep knowledge, and signed every certificate by hand as a sign of respect for their diligence. The certificates granted both teaching and practical authorization in the laws of STaM and specialized halachic guidance.
In remarks to those present, Yosef stressed that even a scholar who knows the material well must continue to consult others. “Although the young man is proficient and knows the study thoroughly, a necessary condition for correct ruling is constant consultation,” he said. He concluded by blessing the newly certified scribes with success in their sacred work.
