Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch Leads Rare 'First Shearing' Ceremony with Pinsk-Karlin Rebbe in Jerusalem

Last week, Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch, a leading halachic authority, hosted a rare and spiritually uplifting 'First Shearing' (Rishit HaGez) ceremony at his Jerusalem residence. Known for his meticulous observance of Jewish law, Rabbi Sternbuch commissioned a special emissary well in advance to procure unique, pedigree sheep for the mitzvah, ensuring they were carefully bred without any crossbreeding, in accordance with halachic standards.

The event was attended by prominent rabbis and scholars from the "Teshuvot VeHanhagot" kollels network, led by Rabbi Sternbuch himself. Only the kollel members from the Geula neighborhood branch were invited, in honor of their recent completion of a year-and-a-half-long intensive study cycle. Prior to the ceremony, Rabbi Sternbuch delivered a detailed Talmudic lecture on the complex laws of sukkah partitions, the current focus of their study.

During the ceremony, Rabbi Sternbuch handed the freshly sheared wool to the Pinsk-Karlin Rebbe, who received it joyfully, lifted it high, and danced with it in a display of sacred enthusiasm. The highlight was a spirited dance between the Rebbe and Rabbi Sternbuch, joined by Rabbi Sternbuch’s son, Rabbi Chaim Ozer Sternbuch, head of the kollel.

The Rebbe then recited the priestly blessing verses over Rabbi Sternbuch, wishing him long life, good health, and continued leadership of the Jewish people. Rabbi Sternbuch responded with blessings for the Rebbe’s success, satisfaction, and that all his descendants engage in Torah and mitzvot.