Two rabbis from a Moscow congregation joined together in solidarity with hundreds of IDF soldiers from the elite Givati Brigade as they danced and sang at a the dedication of a new Torah scroll.
The event, held last week at a location near Gaza, was intended to honor the soldiers for their ongoing efforts during and after Operation Cast Lead.
Rabbi Yitzchak Kogan and Rabbi Mendy Ofen brought with them tefillin (phylacteries), tzitzit (four-cornered fringed garment) and special "Chitat" (Chumash, Tehillim, Tanya) prayer and learning books as gifts from their congregation for the soldiers. In addition, they handed over letters from their congregants wishing the soldiers blessings, success and health in their defense of the Jewish People.
According to a report on the Chabad website Lubavitch.com, the Moscow community regularly contributes Torahs and Jewish religious items to benefit IDF soldiers.
Brigadier-General Avigdor Kahanlani also made an appearance at the dedication, which was sponsored by the Agudah L'maan HaChayal (Organization on Behalf of the Soldier).
Moreover, OC Southern Command Maj.-Gen. Yoav Galant himself joined the celebration, and inscribed one of the final letters in the Torah. Givati Brigade Commander Col. Ilan Malka was also present, as were other regional officers, and members of the soldiers' organization.