‘Yeshiva in Prison’ Prints a Tanya Behind Bars

The Aleph Institute recently held its Adel bas Avraham Yeshiva in Prison program at the Marion Correctional Facility in Ocala, Florida, where bochurim Shmuly Cohen, Yossi Isaac, and Menachem Engel successfully printed a Tanya, spreading the light of Chassidus even behind bars.

During a recent Aleph Institute program held at the Marion Correctional Facility in Ocala, Florida, bochurim Shmuly Cohen, Yossi Isaac, and Menachem Engel successfully printed a Tanya within the facility, with the Rebbe’s brachos and a remarkable display of Hashgacha Pratis.

Aleph’s Adel bas Avraham Yeshiva in Prison program is a unique initiative where bochurim spend two full days with incarcerated individuals—learning and davening together and engaging in meaningful discussions. The culmination of their efforts was the printing of the Tanya, spreading the light of Chassidus even behind bars.

Following the printing, one of the bochurim delivered a shiur on Perek Lamed Beis from the newly printed copies. This was followed by an uplifting session of singing and dancing, creating an atmosphere of joy and inspiration.

The impact of the event was deeply felt by those who participated. One incarcerated man described it as his happiest day in prison, and another even shared that it was the happiest day of his life. This response highlights the profound effect of bringing Torah and Chassidus into their lives.

Special thanks are extended to R’ Shmuel Jacobson, who played a crucial role in obtaining the Tanya PDF quickly, ensuring the success of this meaningful project. The Tanya was printed in the merit of a swift and complete recovery for Yosef Shlomo ben Risha.

Aleph’s Yeshiva in Prison program operates within correctional facilities to promote rehabilitation and compliance with the law. The program recreates a “yeshiva-like” environment for individuals in prison, offering intensive learning programs, prayer, and a curriculum covering Jewish law, Talmud, ethics, and more. The goal is to provide participants with the tools and motivation they need to change the trajectory of their lives, reconnect with their Jewish roots, and become law-following, productive members of society.

“Every individual has the power for transformation, regardless of their life circumstances,” said Rabbi Yossi Cohen, Aleph’s Director of Religious Education. “Through Aleph’s Yeshiva in Prison program, we strive to unlock the potential within each individual by providing not only the knowledge, but also the tools to spark profound personal change.”

To find out more about this program and how you can volunteer, please email Rabbi Yossi Cohen at [email protected].