Rabbi Yigal Cohen Launches New High-Standard Kashrut Supervision for Religious Articles

On Monday evening, Rabbi Yigal Cohen inaugurated the "Yagel Libbi" Badatz, a new kosher supervision system dedicated to religious articles such as Torah scrolls, mezuzot, tefillin, the four species, and high-quality matzah. The event took place in Rabbi Cohen's office and highlighted the need for elevated standards and transparency in the certification of these sacred items.

Rabbi Cohen emphasized that while the public is well aware of kosher food supervision, many remain unaware of who writes and supervises religious articles, their level of precision, and whether they undergo proper inspection. Rabbi Eliezer Brod shared a story about the Lubavitcher Rebbe, who insisted not only on checking the kosher status of a mezuzah but also on verifying the scribe's piety, underscoring the importance of both product and scribe integrity.

The new Badatz aims to thoroughly examine both the scribes and the products to provide the public with peace of mind and confidence in purchasing sacred items. Rabbi Yosef Mashdi connected the initiative to the weekly Torah portion, highlighting the mitzvah of returning lost objects as a metaphor for restoring the Jewish people's spiritual connection through meticulously crafted tefillin.

Rabbi Neriya Barbi criticized current market shortcomings, especially in the religious articles sector, and praised Rabbi Cohen's decision to establish this supervision system. He noted that financial profit is not the goal; rather, the mission is to enable every Jew to fulfill commandments with excellence and tranquility, even if it requires personal financial sacrifice.

Knesset member Rabbi Yoni Mashriki commended Rabbi Cohen's extensive efforts for the Jewish community and the establishment of this high-level kosher supervision. Rabbi Shimon Mamo was appointed CEO of the new Badatz, expressing gratitude for the trust and responsibility entrusted to him.

The ceremony was attended by prominent rabbis including Rabbi Shlomo Machpud, Rabbi Eliezer Brod, Rabbi Yosef Mashdi, Rabbi Neriya Barbi, as well as public figures such as Knesset member Yoni Mashriki and Bnei Brak Deputy Mayor Shlomi Elharar. The "Yagel Libbi" Badatz seeks to offer a clear, reliable, and refined address for Jews wishing to observe commandments with the highest standards of kashrut supervision.