BROOKLYN, N.Y., Aug. 4, 2009 — Working closely with Chabad, Mouli Cohen continues his work supporting important Jewish projects throughout the world. His latest endeavor includes providing the necessary funds to build the Heichal Harashab, a brand-new library and museum that promises to attract tourists and scholars to Hebron.
The rooms have been tastefully upgraded to reflect their historical significance by artist Eliyahu Idinov. Authentic documents and artifacts dating back more than a century display the rich Chabad history in Hebron. The Chabad library and comfortable furniture welcome all visitors and scholars.
"We are very impressed with the work that has been done on the Heichal Harashab and are happy to have been a part of this important project. There is no doubt in our minds that this new museum will foster great education among its visitors," said Mouli.
Up until the late 19th century, the Jewish community of Hebron was situated exclusively in the Jewish Quarter, where the Avraham Avinu neighborhood stands today. One of the first Jewish landowners to venture outside the neighborhood was the wealthy Chaim Yisrael Merikado Romano, from Turkey. In 1878 Romano built a magnificent home which became known as Beit Romano. In 1901 the renowned sage Rabbi Chaim Chezkia Medini, the Sdei Chemed, ascended to Hebron and was invited to reside in Beit Romano, where he established a Yeshiva.
While living in Beit Romano he completed the series of books entitled Sdei Chemed. Upon learning that the Romano family was interested in selling their home in Hebron, the Sdei Chemed suggested the property to the Fifth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Shalom DovBer Schneerson, the Rebbe Rashab.
In his letters, the Rashab expressed his desire to stimulate the Hebron community and to establish a Yeshiva in Hebron that would emulate the Chabad Yeshiva which he established in Russia. In 1912, Yeshiva Toras Emes was established in Beit Romano. A group of select students was sent to Hebron by the Rashab, led by the famous Mashpia, Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Havlin. Under his leadership the Yeshiva brought fresh energy to the Hebron community. Many local householders joined in the classes. Today, Beit Romano is the home for Yeshivat Shavei Chevron, which after the 1967 War received permission from the Lubavitcher Rebbe to use Beit Romano. Heichal Harashab is situated in one of the Yeshiva's classrooms.
Until recently, this piece of history was virtually unknown to visitors of Hebron. With the help of Rabbi Danny Cohen of Chabad of Hebron, and Mouli Cohen's generous support, the new library and museum can be enjoyed by thousands of visitors to the ancient city of Hebron.
For more information about Chabad of Hebron visit:
About Mouli Cohen
Mr. Cohen is a highly successful investor and entrepreneur within many sectors. He has balanced his success in business with extensive philanthropic activities supporting children's charities, medical research, and education projects in the U.S. and abroad. See Mouli's thoughts on philanthropy here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8ypWivQO18
Contact:
Jennifer Samaria
Press Department
(310) 729-3635
Email
# # #