Muslim Republic President Lauds Chabad at Yeshivah Opening

President Rustam Minnikhanov of the Republic of Tatarstan, Russia’s largest Muslim republic, praised the work of Chabad emissaries in the city of Kazan at the opening there of the newest branch of Yeshiva Tomchei Temimim. The Nov. 8 event was timed to the 20th of Cheshvan, which marks the birthday of the founder of the yeshivah network, the fifth Lubavitcher Rebbe—Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneersohn, known by the acronym “Rashab.”

Minnikhanov noted how the Jewish community in Kazan “serves as an example to all of us [on] how important tradition is and how vital it is to pass on these values from generation to generation.”

He added that he was very happy a center for Torah study has opened in the city of Kazan: “I am sure that anyone who will walk into this center will leave as a better person.”

The new yeshivah building is situated on the same parcel of land as the city’s more than 100-year-old Central synagogue, which was restored two years ago. The school boasts large, beautiful study halls to meet the school’s needs, funded by Russian businessman and philanthropist David Aminov of Moscow. A variety of programs will be offered related to the study of Torah and chassidus for all ages and levels, from beginners to advanced students.

The new yeshivah building is situated on the same parcel of land as the city’s more than 100-year-old Central synagogue, which was restored two years ago.

This yeshivah represents a major breakthrough in the Jewish Community in Kazan, under the leadership of Chabad-Lubavitch emissary Rabbi Yitzchak Gorelik.

In addition to supporters and local community members, guests of honor at the opening ceremony included President Minnikhanov; the Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar; Mayor Ilsur Metshin of Kazan; Rabbi Alexander Boroda, president of the Federation of Jewish Communities in the former Soviet Union; and Aminov.

The guests were greeted by Gorelik, who showed them around the new yeshivah, explaining the significance of Torah learning for the Jewish people.

Lazar affixes the mezuzah to the yeshivah doorpost.

Lazar affixed the mezuzah to the main entrance. He, too, spoke of the importance of Torah study for every Jew, no matter his or her background. He concluded with words of thanks to Minnikhanov for his ongoing assistance to the Jewish community.

Minnikhanov then presented an award to Gorelik for his work in the development of the community, and his contribution to peace and brotherhood among the inhabitants of the Tatarstan republic.

After the ceremony, the public was invited into one of the magnificent halls in the new yeshivah to take part in the first class given there, led by Lazar.

In one of the new rooms to participate in the first class given there, led by Lazar.

Minnikhanov presents an award to Gorelik for his work in helping develop the community, and his contributions to peace and brotherhood among residents of Tatarstan.