Winter in Moscow: Children Arrive at Cheder Before Sunrise

During the frigid winter months in Moscow, children attending Cheder Menachem begin their school day before sunrise, braving the bitter cold and the darkness. Despite the challenges, they arrive at school with wide smiles and boundless energy, ready for a day of Torah learning under the care of a dedicated staff. 

During the winter months in Russia, and particularly in Moscow, sunrise takes place around 9:00 AM. This means that children set out for school while wrapped warmly in layers, surrounded by darkness that barely begins to brighten the skies. Upon their return home, they are once again greeted by nightfall, as their school day concludes about an hour after sunset.

The journey, as expected, is accompanied by bitter cold, following hours of learning and enjoyment in their educational institutions. These short winter days, in stark contrast to the abundance of summer sunlight, inspire an eager anticipation for the return of longer, brighter days.

Just a few days ago, amidst relatively mild weather, talented photographer Levi Nazarov captured these special moments through his lens. He documented the students arriving with joy and energy at the Cheder Menachem, located in the Marina Roscha neighborhood. 

With broad smiles and a palpable sense of excitement, the children entered the cheder, ready for hours of enriching learning. Dedicated and loving staff accompany them throughout the day, ensuring their well-being. Most breaks are spent indoors, as outside weather generally doesn’t allow for outdoor play.

Alongside this Talmud Torah, Moscow is home to numerous distinguished educational institutions, ranging from daycare centers and kindergartens to yeshivas, kollelim, and Jewish academic institutions. All of this has been made possible through the tireless efforts of Russia’s Chief Rabbi, Rabbi Berel Lazar. He established these institutions to serve the entire Jewish community in the city, ensuring that every child finds their place within a Torah-true educational framework that upholds the values of Torah and mitzvos while equipping them with the tools for success and spiritual growth.

Photos: Levi Nazarov