Thousands gathered on Wednesday night for the main memorial celebration for Rabbi Shalom Ifergan, known as Baba Shalom, in an event led by his grandson and successor, Rabbi Netanel Shiriki. The gathering drew a large turnout of rabbis, ministers, lawmakers and public figures, and was described by attendees as an unusually moving display of unity.
Those present included Netivot Chief Rabbi Pinchas Cohen, Rabbi Yaakov Yisrael Ifergan, Beersheba Chief Rabbi Abraham Deri, and heads of kollels Ronel Aharon, Aharon Samnian and Elhai Shiriki. Also attending were Nir Barkat, Uriel Buso, MKs Eliyahu Revivo and Keti Shitrit, Teachers Union secretary-general Yaffa Ben-David, Petah Tikva Mayor Rami Greenberg, Be'er Tuvia Regional Council head Ben Cohen, attorney Efraim Damari, and other business and public figures.
The event focused on national unity, bringing together different sectors and including prayers for the recovery and safety of IDF soldiers and security forces. Participants said that at a time of national challenges and internal divisions, events that strengthen mutual responsibility and unity are especially important.
Many attendees said Rabbi Shalom Ifergan’s lifelong work to deepen love among Jews and bring people closer together continues to inspire thousands today. The memorial honored his role in strengthening the Jewish people, promoting love of Israel, and bridging divides.
