The Miracle of Challah: A Story of Hope and Redemption

The phone rang. The bank’s number appeared on the screen.

Racheli’s heart pounded; she knew well why the bank was calling. Several checks were supposed to clear today, but their account was overdrawn.

"Hello," a stern voice came from the other end of the line identifying himself as the bank manager. After confirming he was speaking to the account holder, he stated authoritatively: "I wanted to inform you that your account is facing severe limitations. To prevent this, you are required to deposit ten thousand shekels within twenty-four hours to cover the checks scheduled to clear your account."

Ten thousand shekels!

Someone owed them that amount, but they had been chasing him for a year and he was nowhere to be found.

Racheli decided to take action: despite having already baked and separated challah that week, she chose to do it again.

In her twenty years of marriage, Racheli had never experienced challah separation with such emotion. She felt uplifted and close to Hashem. After finishing, she felt a calmness wash over her, feeling assured in the hands of the Divine.

The next morning, her husband's personal phone rang. It was the debtor.

Within an hour, the amount was deposited in their bank account, and the couple breathed a sigh of relief.

That Shabbat, the challahs tasted different—tangibly flavored with faith and gratitude to Hashem for the miracles His commandments bring even in this world.

The full story can be found in the book "Shvilei Challah", by Rebbetzin Esther Tolino.

Community Classes and Challah Separation - for booking home gatherings and challah separation events: Tel. 073-2221290, email aviva@htv.co.il