The Legacy of Rabbi Gedalia Moshe of Zvhil

The 24th of Cheshvan marks 76 years since the passing of Rabbi Gedalia Moshe of Zvhil. Following are seven facts about this great figure and the well-known spiritual practice called “Monday–Thursday–Monday”.

1. A Humble Rebbe Who Performed Wonders

Rabbi Gedalia Moshe of Zvhil was the fifth Rebbe of the Zvhil dynasty. He was known for his deep humility, and even during his lifetime, many people experienced remarkable salvations through his prayers.

2. Imprisoned in Siberia for Teaching Torah

He was born in Russia and remained there even after his father immigrated to the Land of Israel. Because he taught Torah, he was arrested by the Russian authorities and sentenced to seven years in Siberia. Even there, he continued to observe Torah and mitzvot with great self-sacrifice. Toward the end of his life, he was finally permitted to immigrate to Israel.

3. The Fruits That Fell Into the Pit

During a visit from a great rabbi, Rabbi Gedalia Moshe was told a story about his time in Siberia: once, Russian soldiers punished him by throwing him into a deep pit without food for three days. As he neared starvation, fruits suddenly fell into the pit, saving his life.

The visiting rabbi suggested that this must have been the prophet Elijah sent from Heaven. But Rabbi Gedalia Moshe humbly responded that it was more likely the bored guards had been tossing fruit around, and some accidentally fell in. In his humility, he chose the simplest explanation.

4. Reluctant to Become Rebbe

After the passing of his father, Rabbi Shlomo, on the 26th of Iyar 5705, the Zvhil chassidim asked him to take his father’s place. He initially refused, but agreed only when told that his father’s yeshiva, “Beit Mordechai – Zvhil,” would suffer without him.

After just four and a half years, he expressed that his heart could not bear the burden, and he passed away on the 24th of Cheshvan 5710.

5. The “Monday–Thursday–Monday” Segulah

Rabbi Gedalia Moshe became widely known for a powerful segulah passed down over generations: anyone who visits his grave on Monday, Thursday, and the following Monday — three consecutive visits, can merit great salvation in any matter.

Many testimonies speak of miracles, including couples blessed with children after years of infertility, marriages formed after long struggles, and countless other personal salvations.

6. A Living Tradition of Prayer and Gratitude

Even today, many people visit his grave in the cemetery of Sheikh Badr (near the Knesset in Jerusalem). It is considered a proven practice: one who comes three times — Monday, Thursday, Monday, prays for salvation, and promises to return and give thanks publicly, may merit to see miracles.

Near his grave, you can still find notes and testimonies under the heading “We promised to share…,” filled with stories of extraordinary salvations.

7. Moving Testimonies of Miracles

People continue to share powerful experiences:

• “A segulah that works. I prayed there and my request was fully granted.”

• “I prayed Monday–Thursday–Monday and was saved.”

• “I prayed for my son’s recovery — and we saw great miracles.”

• “I struggled with livelihood, and after doing this, things opened up.”

• “We too were helped through prayer at the grave.”

• “I saw miracles, thank God!”

• “My daughter was in danger and was saved.”

• “After praying, I was blessed with a child.”

• “I found an apartment despite impossible conditions.”

And many more.

Thousands visit the holy site throughout the year, especially around his yahrzeit on the 24th of Cheshvan.

How to Perform the “Monday–Thursday–Monday” Segulah

1. Visit the grave of the tzaddik in Jerusalem three times. The site is in Givat Ram, near the Rose Garden and the Knesset.

2. Pray and ask God for your salvation in the merit of the tzaddik. You may say Psalms, give charity, and light a candle.

3. Repeat this for three consecutive visits: Monday, Thursday, and Monday. It is best to come before sunset (alternatively, Sunday night and Wednesday night after sunset).

4. Verbally commit that once your request is fulfilled, you will return to give thanks, and be sure to keep your promise.

May we hear good news and experience great salvations very soon.