Sichat HaShavua, the largest Shabbos publication, marks a major milestone as they celebrate the release of their 2,000th issue with wishes from Israeli leaders and media personalities. Launched nearly 40 years ago, the widely popular weekly has since become a staple in thousands of shuls and homes across Eretz Yisroel.
By Anash.org reporter
This Shabbos marks a major milestone for Sichat HaShavua, the pioneering weekly publication of Chabad in Eretz Yisroel, as they celebrate the release of their 2,000th consecutive issue.
Launched nearly 40 years ago, in honor of Yud Tes Kislev 5747 (1987), Sichat HaShavua was one of the first weekly Torah publications distributed in shuls throughout Eretz Yisroel. Published by Tzach and edited by Rabbi Menachem Brod, it quickly became a fixture in thousands of shuls and a widely popular and influential presence in Israeli Jewish life.
The publication is translated and distributed weekly in English, Russian, and French (and previously also in Spanish). The Hebrew edition alone is printed in 180,000 copies each week, bringing Torah, Chassidus, stories, and Jewish values to all segments of Israeli society in an accessible and engaging style.
The Rebbe was involved in the publication from the beginning, offering brachos and, at times, comments or critiques on specific articles. Over the years, several popular books have been compiled from columns originally published in the weekly.
In honor of the 2,000th consecutive issue, a special 16-page edition was released this week, featuring a fresh new design and warm messages from prominent rabbanim, Israeli leaders, and public figures.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog extended his congratulations, writing: “My deep appreciation for the Chabad movement is no secret, and Sichat HaShavua is a powerful extension of its mission – bringing the word of G-d to the public in a clear, engaging, and inspiring manner.”
The edition also features stories of individuals whose lives were changed after discovering the weekly, as well as reflections from journalists at prominent Israeli outlets – Yediot Acharonot, Israel Hayom, Kan 11, Galei Tzahal, and others – who share how the publication impacted them personally.
Israel’s Chief Rabbi David Yosef wrote: “Sichat HaShavua was founded nearly 40 years ago with the goal of bringing Jews closer to Torah, out of love for every Jew. Its weekly articles are rich with insights, stories, and teachings that strengthen faith and bring hope to the Jewish heart.”
Israel’s Chief Rabbi Kalman Bar added: “This is a celebration of Torah dissemination – 2,000 issues corresponding to 2,000 weeks of Torah. Truly a day of joy for spreading Torah everywhere.”
As Lubavitch in Eretz Yisroel celebrates the 2,000th issue, their commitment only grows to reach every part of the Israeli community.
“We remain committed to continuing the Rebbe’s mission – spreading light, renewing ourselves, and reaching every Jew with a message of hope and faith,” said Rabbi Yosef Aharonov, director of Tzach in Eretz Yisroel, who initiated the publication four decades ago.
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