עברית
Discovering Hidden Treasures: The Extraordinary Journey of Rare Torah Scrolls
Join us as we uncover the hidden stories of some of the world's rarest Torah scrolls, preserved through trials and tribulations. From a Torah kept in a Polish stable to one rescued from Kristallnacht and another written on pomegranate ink.
The stories of these Torah scrolls reflect the resilience of a people and their enduring connection to their faith. Let's delve into their remarkable journeys:
A Torah Hidden in a Polish Stable
During WWII, Rabbi Avraham Granik entrusted a Torah to his Polish neighbor, Vladek Gornitzki, who hid it in a stable, placing a cross on its iron case for protection. Post-war, Gornitzki returned the scroll to the surviving Granik family, and it was brought to Israel where it now resides in a synagogue.
Rescued from Kristallnacht
One Torah scroll was saved from a Leipzig synagogue during Kristallnacht and later discovered in the attic beams of a university library. It has since been entrusted to the Yad Vashem museum in Israel, symbolizing survival and resilience.
The World's Smallest Torah
Measuring only 5 cm, this unique Torah reminds us of King David, known for carrying a Torah around his wrist. Crafted with precision, it serves not just as an heirloom but also as a testament to the dedication involved in its creation.
An 850-Year-Old Treasure
Researchers in Bologna, Italy, discovered a Torah scroll believed to be 850 years old, potentially making it the oldest complete Torah scroll. Housed in the university library, its survival is a reminder of the enduring Jewish legacy.
The Pomegranate Ink Torah
Written with pomegranate ink on deerskin, this Torah from Iraqi Kurdistan found its way to Israel after being discovered in a Baghdad archive by American soldiers. It now resides in the Israeli Foreign Ministry, a testament to cultural heritage and religious resilience.
From Bergen-Belsen to Space
An inspiring story of a small Torah, once used secretly in a Bergen-Belsen bar mitzvah, traveled to space with Israeli astronaut Ilan Ramon, symbolizing the eternal connection between the Jewish people and their sacred texts.
Treasure Trove on Pavzaner Street
In Haifa, the modest Galnitski Museum houses a vast collection of sacred Jewish artifacts, including a miniature Torah used in Libyan caves. Assembling these artifacts became a mission to preserve a culture nearly lost, emphasizing their historical importance and spiritual legacy.
