Hundreds of Daf Yomi Instructors Gather at Western Wall Tunnels for Founding Conference
Last week, during the intermediate days of the Three Weeks and on the eve of the month of Menachem Av, hundreds of Daf Yomi instructors from across Israel convened near the Western Wall tunnels for the inaugural conference of the 'Daf Yomi Instructors Association.' The gathering coincided with the global study of Tractate Chullin, which was being learned by Daf Yomi participants worldwide. The event took place close to the site of the ancient Temple sacrifices, symbolizing a prayer for the rebuilding of the Temple soon.
Participants entered through a dramatic exhibit called 'Gate of Heaven,' which depicted the longing for redemption and the Temple's reconstruction. They then proceeded through the tunnels, passing displays and booths focused on Tractate Chullin, offering ideas and practical tools to assist instructors in preparing and delivering their daily lessons.
The main address was delivered by Rabbi David Cohen, head of the Hebron Yeshiva, who praised the establishment of the association and emphasized the honor of being part of the unbroken chain of Torah transmission from Moses to the present. He highlighted the growing anticipation for redemption and the Temple's rebuilding, noting that Torah study brings the world closer to this goal. Rabbi Shmuel Rabinovitch, Rabbi of the Western Wall and holy sites, also spoke, sharing that he regularly teaches Daf Yomi and underscored the importance of daily study and the unique merit of gathering near the Temple site.
The conference included a professional panel discussion where instructors shared challenges, experiences, and practical solutions. The event concluded with an artistic presentation on Tractate Chullin. The conference was organized by Rabbi Avraham Charlap, chairman of the World Daf organization, in cooperation with the Western Wall Heritage Foundation and supported by the Jerusalem Municipality's Department for Torah Culture. Due to high demand and limited space, attendance was restricted, and preparations for the next conference have already begun.
