Thousands of Yeshiva Students Mark Start of Elul Study Period Across Israel

The beginning of the Elul study period was marked with large gatherings and spirited Torah learning sessions across multiple prominent yeshivas in Israel. In Ponovezh Yeshiva, thousands of students and scholars from six different study halls convened for intense study and lessons delivered by leading rabbis, captured in extensive photo documentation. Similarly, hundreds of students at the Slabodka Yeshiva gathered in the main hall alongside senior rabbis Rabbi Dov Lando and Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch to commence the period with inspiring Torah study.

Other notable yeshivas also opened the Elul period with significant events. At Migdal Oz in Givat Ze'ev, hundreds of students celebrated the inauguration of new dormitory and dining facilities after a day of dedicated study under Rabbi Yechezkel Etrog. The Sephardic world was represented by Yeshivat Brit Yaakov, where 360 students began the period with fervent study under the leadership of Rabbi Michael Tolidano and his brothers.

In Bnei Brak, Kiryat Malach Yeshiva marked the start of Elul with the completion of the Tractate Baba Batra, a year-long study effort, highlighted by a keynote address from Rabbi Shlomo Kanievsky. The Ashdod community saw the Tashanabil Rebbe open the period with a strengthening speech and blessings for the students. Other yeshivas, including Yeshuot Moshe and Vizhnitz, and Beit Midrash Elyon, also began Elul with emotional gatherings, Torah study, and inspiring talks from their respective leaders.

Historical and administrative developments were also noted. Knesset member Uri Maklev presented the Ponovezh Yeshiva president with rare historical ownership documents dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, underscoring the yeshiva’s longstanding heritage. Meanwhile, legal representatives of Ponovezh demanded the immediate evacuation of the yeshiva’s property from opposing parties, reflecting ongoing disputes over the site.

The period’s opening was further marked by communal unity and spiritual renewal, with many yeshivas expanding their facilities and programs to accommodate growing student bodies. The events collectively highlight the dedication and vibrancy of Torah study as the community prepares for the High Holy Days.