Israeli Rabbis Launch Annual Prayer Event for Older Singles Seeking Marriage by Simchat Torah 2026

Ahead of the Shabbat of Parashat Massei, a rare tradition from the late Maran Sar HaTorah Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky has been revealed, offering hope to older unmarried women praying for a suitable match. Rabbi Yitzchak Koldetski, son-in-law of Rabbi Kanievsky, shared that the Torah reading about the daughters of Zelophehad, who married their cousins at age 40, is considered a special time when prayers for marriage are especially effective.

Rabbi Koldetski explained that when the Torah portion mentioning a particular topic is read, that matter is spiritually awakened, creating a "time of favor" for those seeking salvation in marriage. Rabbi Kanievsky reportedly encouraged annual prayers during this reading, promising assured salvation for those who pray.

Following this testimony, the charity "Kupat Ha'Ir" approached the three sons-in-law of the late Maran Sar HaTorah, Rabbi Yitzchak Zilberstein, Rabbi Shmuel Steinman, and Rabbi Yitzchak Koldetski, who agreed to lead special prayers during this auspicious time. The event will take place in their respective study halls, where the Torah portion concludes the Book of Numbers.

At the climax, after the congregation recites "Chazak Chazak V'Nitchazek," Rabbi Koldetski will recite a special "Mi Sheberach" prayer for the unmarried women who have donated to Kupat Ha'Ir, with their names displayed beside the Torah scroll. Similar prayers will be said by Rabbis Steinman and Koldetski in their synagogues, uniting the three venues in a collective plea for salvation.

Kupat Ha'Ir noted that the list includes women who donate or whose relatives donate on their behalf, supporting needy Torah scholars' families. This annual opportunity combines charity, the spiritual power of the Torah reading at a time of favor, and the prayers of prominent rabbis, aiming to bring about marriage by Simchat Torah 5787 (2026).