Torah at the Center: The Largest Torah Class in Israel Takes Place in... Tel Aviv!

The Tel Aviv landscape, known for its secular and vibrant atmosphere, is destined, with Hashem's help, to undergo a revolutionary change. Starting this week, more than a thousand participants are expected each Thursday to flock to the Great Synagogue to attend Rabbi Zamir Cohen's class.

For those wondering how such a massive class was organized in the heart of Tel Aviv, Moshe Chaim, the class founder, notes that its roots trace back three and a half years. "I live in Ramat Aviv, North Tel Aviv," he shares, "Over three and a half years ago, we were establishing a local synagogue. I proposed inviting Rabbi Zamir Cohen to join us for Shabbat, and thankfully, he agreed. We experienced an amazing Shabbat with captivating lectures and spiritual enthusiasm. On Saturday night, I suggested to the rabbi to hold a regular class in Ramat Aviv, and I was thrilled by his positive response."

According to Moshe, a regular class began every Thursday in the heart of Ramat Aviv. Initially, participants were few, but soon hundreds more joined. "Many attendees experienced significant personal growth," he explains, "Rabbi Zamir saw potential in the neighborhood and even remarked, 'There are diamonds here, they just need polishing.'"

Not Missing a Single Class

One of the regular attendees is Merav Katzav, who came to the first class almost unknowingly. "I come from a completely secular background," she admits, "My friends told me about Rabbi Zamir's class, so I decided to go. Already the first time, I felt something I'd never felt before: the rabbi spoke, and I sensed a vast sea of Torah flowing from him. I just wanted to keep listening and dive into this ocean."

Since then, Merav has undergone a process of strengthening her faith. "The rabbi's classes were integral to this process," she says, "What I liked most was how he delivered his teachings so pleasantly, without imposing or attacking any beliefs or opinions. Through the classes, I've made many commitments in various areas. I don't miss even one class; I'm simply not willing to give it up."

What is it about these classes that draws so many people?

"I think there are several elements," explains Moshe Chaim, "Firstly, the difficult security and social situation prompts many to ask deep philosophical questions. When they hear the rabbi speak on topics like Torah, science, and human psychology, they are captivated. Nowadays, many young people are interested in tradition and eager to enrich their inner worlds. Thus, those coming to the classes are from all walks of life in the area, of all ages and backgrounds, forming a sort of cohesive family. The class is broadcast live,  with about 400 people watching from home, followed by tens of thousands from Israel and abroad who view it later."

In parallel, Moshe points out that numerous participants decided to embark on a unique project by assisting Rabbi Zamir in establishing a kollel in Beitar Illit. "Until now, the rabbi only had a yeshiva," he explains, "We, the class participants, managed to unite and gather the funds needed to maintain the kollel." Today, about 30 scholars study all day. The kollel is led by Rabbi Yaakov, my brother, who has accompanied and supported me throughout."

The Great Synagogue, Tel Aviv (Photo: Yaakov Nokhumy / Flash 90)

How do you explain Tel Avivians supporting the upkeep of a Haredi kollel?

"It may sound unbelievable, but I can speak for myself – immediately after Yair Lapid was elected, I realized that Torah scholars would face difficulties, and I wanted to support them. Others in the class felt similarly, and it seemed natural that while there are Torah scholars, there should be those who support them."

Moshe adds that participants benefit from the kollel's existence. "As part of its establishment, we initiated a hotline called 'Rabbi on the Line' that includes WhatsApp groups. People can ask questions in Halacha and faith via phone or message throughout the day, and certified rabbis from the kollel provide answers. This service has high demand."

"We Wanted to Keep Growing the Class"

Over recent years, the class was regularly held on Thursdays in the Ramat Aviv synagogue. However, as attendance grew, the venue became overcrowded, with people sitting on stairs and in corridors.

"We wanted to keep expanding the class but realized it wasn't feasible under current conditions," Moshe Chaim explains. Rabbi Yitzchak Bar Ze’ev of the Great Synagogue invited Rabbi Cohen to hold the class there. We saw an opportunity to expand and enhance the Torah's reach.

Indeed, a month ago, a pilot class at the Great Synagogue was conducted with tremendous response. "At the end of that evening, a young couple approached me saying they initially planned to go out but changed plans to attend upon hearing Rabbi Cohen was there," Moshe recounts excitedly. "That's our goal – to expand Torah. By touching people's emotions, we achieve our mission."

In a conversation with Rabbi Bar-Ze’ev, he adds: "The Great Synagogue of Tel Aviv is one of the largest in the country, seating up to 1,400. Historically, it served as the city's principal synagogue and a focal point for Torah life. Over the last two years, it's experienced renewal with daily prayer services, Shabbat meals, Torah cultural events, lectures, and classes. Part of this renewal is bringing people closer."

"Rabbi Cohen's class is part of the synagogue's renewal," emphasizes Rabbi Bar-Ze’ev, "We hope and believe it will become the largest weekly class in the country, fitting for the Great Synagogue."

The class at the Great Synagogue is set for this coming Thursday – 15th of Tammuz (07/21/16), and every Thursday thereafter, at the Great Synagogue – 110 Allenby Street, Tel Aviv.Public is invited at 8:30, initial guest rabbi lecture, followed by Rabbi Zamir Cohen.