Chidon Competition Heats Up

Over 2,000 students worldwide took the second qualifying test in the international tournament of 613 mitzvos.

After months of learning and reviewing new material, students from around the world put their knowledge to the test in a second round of qualifying Chidon tests yesterday. The Chidon coordinators Whatsapp group didn’t stop buzzing all morning as pictures were posted from almost 60 schools around the world who are participating in the competition.

Results from this test and the two other qualifying tests will be averaged to determine eligibility for the Chidon Shabbaton and who will represent each school at the Grand Chidon event game show competition in Crown Heights later this year, a reward for all of effort these students have put in.

“We can only imagine the tremendous smile that would be seen on the Rebbe’s face, as so many of his children, his Chassidim, dedicated many long hours of their free time to master the details of 613 mitzvos,” says Rabbi Shimmy Weinbaum, director of Chayolei Tzivos Hashem.

The chidon is just one part of a larger movement to reawaken a commitment to learning Rambam. Using the Living Lessons materials created by a generous grant from the Rohr Family Foundation, teachers can impart students with a thorough knowledge of all 613 mitzvos over a five-year period, from fourth through eighth grade.

“There is no need to elaborate on how much it means to the Rebbe that every man, woman, and child study the daily portion of Rambam,” said Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, chairman of Merkos L’inyonei Chinuch. “Our goal with this initiative is that every child have a clear understanding of all 613 mitzvos.”

“We are looking forward to welcoming the contestants from around the world, and are planning an incredibly exciting Shabbaton for them here in Crown Heights!” says Rabbi Sholom Ber Baumgarten, chidon coordinator.

May this limmud bring us one step closer to the coming of Moshiach, the time when we will be able to keep all 613 mitzvos.

Find out more about the chidon event at chidon613.com.

Pictured below are students from Bnos Menachem, Oholei Torah, Lubavitch Boys London, and Cheder Chabad Morristown Boys.