Rabbi Dov Landau Urges Support for Orphans and Widows Ahead of High Holidays

Rabbi Dov Landau, a prominent Haredi rabbi and head of the Ponevezh Yeshiva, has issued a special letter urging the public to support orphans and widows, particularly in the lead-up to the High Holidays. He emphasizes that caring for the bereaved is a significant mitzvah (commandment) that brings divine mercy and protection for generations.

In his letter, Rabbi Landau highlights the unique merit of assisting orphans and widows during the Days of Judgment, when individuals seek divine favor. He quotes the "Meshech Chochma" commentary, which links divine mercy upon the nation to compassion for orphans.

The "Ze La'Zeh" organization is mentioned as a trusted body facilitating this support. Rabbi Landau encourages people to "adopt" an orphan, ensuring their spiritual and material needs are met, describing this act as a salvation for generations.

Concluding his message, Rabbi Landau offers a rare and powerful blessing: "May partners merit a year of life and peace, and may none of them be lost." He personally added this blessing in his own handwriting, dated August 28, 2026 (21 Elul 5786).

The rabbi's words have reportedly generated significant interest and a strong response among the public, with many expressing a desire to participate in supporting orphans and widows, seeing it as a way to secure blessings for themselves and their descendants.