Northern Cyprus Gets First Torah

By COLlive reporter
Photos by Chaim Tuito

A Torah scroll was welcomed for the first time in recent history in Northern Cyprus, the Turkish part of the eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus.

The self-declared state that comprises the northeastern portion of the island of Cyprus is only recognized by Turkey.

Nevertheless, Jewish life is growing there with many tourists visiting the island and Israelis settling there for work.

Serving as their spiritual leader is Rabbi Chaim Hillel Azimov, Director of Chabad of Northern Cyprus. He and his wife offer an array of programs and activities throughout the year.

The new Torah they welcomed last week in the first they can call their own. It was donated by Chilean businessman and philanthropist Leonardo Farkas who couldn’t personally make it to the event.

Participants of the ceremony took part in the writing of the final letters and then danced with the new Torah in the street. They joined later for a festive meal at the Olivium hall with entertainment by chazzan Berel Tzucker and musician Shai Barak.