R. M. Sternbuch Issues Rare Handwritten Blessing for Yeshiva Supporters

Rabbeinu HaGaon Rav Moshe Sternbuch is not hiding his immense excitement and is taking an unprecedented step, drafting by hand a special document granting explicit and clear blessings to those who partner in the construction of the yeshiva he heads. Here are all the details.

A wave of extraordinary emotion and real drama is being felt in the world of Torah these days, with the unveiling of a rare letter by Rabbeinu HaGaon Rav Moshe Sternbuch. After a long period of wandering and hardship for the yeshiva, the Torah institution is now facing a historic milestone, establishing itself in permanent buildings of its own. The major event drew wide attention, but what turned the celebration into an exceptional occasion was the rabbi’s rare move, who, in light of the significance of the moment, decided to give a personal gift for eternity to anyone who extends a hand and helps establish the new home.

Close associates note that this is an unprecedented opportunity, one in which such a detailed and rare blessing is placed within reach of every Jewish home. The rabbi sat down and composed, in his own handwriting, a special נוסח of a 'Birkat HaBayit' intended solely for partners in the building project. In his letter, he reveals that the act works on the principle of measure for measure, and writes in his own language: "In the merit of your partnership in building the House of God in our holy yeshiva, you will merit measure for measure from God that He will participate with you in your home for good."

The real drama lies in the rest of the letter, in which the revered posek lists no fewer than ten explicit blessings covering all a person’s needs, and promises them clearly to every supporter: "And you will see great salvations, and may your home be filled with the blessing of God, and peace shall dwell in your home, and you will merit abundant satisfaction from your children in holiness, long life, good health, abundant livelihood, tranquility of mind and breadth of spirit, and no trouble, pain, or distress will come to your home, but only goodness in your tents all the days. With blessings to all the partners."

According to the yeshiva’s Friends Committee, word of the rare blessing document has spread widely, and many are seeking the merit of bringing this rare promise into their homes. The yeshiva administration has set accessible participation tracks, to allow anyone to embrace the blessing simply.

Under the main track, a donation of 60 shekels for 30 months grants the ten blessings and the blessing document. Committee representatives conclude that this is a historic moment of opportunity, in which Maran’s explicit promises are within easy reach, and all that remains is to extend a hand, take part in building the House of God, and take the blessing home.