If anyone thought the impressive launch of Mivtza Yissachar u’Zevulun in the month of Cheshvan was a one–time event – the month of Kislev arrived and proved otherwise. In fact, history repeated itself with even greater intensity.

Throughout the past month, despite days packed with farbrengens, Chanuka mivtzoyim, and a general festive atmosphere, the bochurim continued to sit and learn. They persisted in their chosen study tracks and invested effort with a seriousness that aroused admiration. The learning was not pushed to the margins – it remained front and center.

During the month, the bochurim sat for comprehensive exams, each according to the track selected at the start of the year. The tracks – Halacha, Chassidus, Geula u’Moshiach, and Girsa – demanded daily investment, review, and consistency, all of which were clearly evident in the test results.

In addition, a special bonus curriculum was introduced in honor of Chanuka: Bochurim of ‘Kvutzah’ were tested on Hilchos Mezuza from the Mechaber and Rama, while the older bochurim were tested on Hilchos Keriyas haTorah from the Mishna Berurah. The tests were conducted at a deep level, requiring a thorough understanding and precision in details, proving that the learning was done with genuine toil (amal) and was not merely superficial.

Upon the conclusion of the exams, the monthly scholarship distribution took place. Once again – without raffles and without conditions – everyone who learned, was tested, and met the requirements received their stipend. For the second consecutive time, tens of thousands of dollars were distributed as a clear appreciation for the investment and toil, and especially for the persistence shown during a challenging month like Kislev.

With a record number of approximately 450 bochurim participating, this year has set a new bar. The unprecedented scope of study and evident seriousness testify that Yissachar u’Zevulun has become a central pillar in the learning life of 770.

This success cannot be mentioned without a word of thanks and appreciation to the generous donors, upon whose financial support this entire important enterprise stands. Their contributions allow the bochurim to diligently pursue their studies with peace of mind (yishuv hadaas), providing tangible strengthening to the toil of Torah. It constitutes a true partnership in building a generation of serious and committed scholars. May their merit stand by them, and may they see blessing in their labor.

**

So, what exactly is Yissachar u’Zevulun?

The Yissachar u’Zevulun program is designed to enable bochurim to learn with yishuv hadaas and diligence. Each bochur chooses one study track, takes a test at the end of the month, and is eligible for a stipend of up to $170. The program is accompanied by a team of professional meshivim and well–edited review booklets that make the material accessible to every learner.

The study tracks for this year are:

• Halacha Track: Study of Shulchan Aruch HaRav Vol. 1.
• Hilchos Shabbos Track: Shulchan Aruch HaRav Vol. 2.
• Geula u’Moshiach Track: Likutei Sichos on Geula u’Moshiach, arranged by topic.
• Chassidus Track: Study of Hemshech Tof Reish Samech vov (5666) in order.
• Girsa Track: Maseches Bava Kama in its entirety, plus Maseches Makkos.

The Mivtza continues to gain momentum, and Igud Talmidei HaKvutzah is already looking ahead to the coming month, anticipating a continued impressive rise in investment and learning.