The event was held at the Jerusalem Theater and recorded in advance due to the security situation, and gathered 16 outstanding young men and women from seven countries. Second place went to Akiva (Jack) Schreier from the United States.
Education Minister Yoav Kisch, Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, and Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Leon were among those present at the event, which was organized by the Education Ministry, the Society and Youth Administration, the Jewish Agency, and the Israel National Fund.
The participants were from Israel, the United States, England, South Africa, Mexico, Panama, and Canada. The Israeli delegation was composed of Georgi Rybnikov, Hoodia Cohen, Yedidiya Mulayev, and Yael Yau; the American delegation had Akiva (Jack) Schreier, Joshua Applebaum, and Hadassah (whose full name is under review).
Leah Gittel Ostroff represented England, Tehila Ranels and Chaim Goldfein represented South Africa, Sara Shasho Shlouch and Miriam Dichi represented Mexico, Jackie Panono and Alan Eitan represented Panama, and Michelle Gamliel and Maya Varskin represented Canada.
The head of the Merhavim Regional Council and chairman of the regional government center, Shai Hajj, congratulated Cohen and said: “I was privileged to meet Hodiya before the quiz and see up close the power of her Tanach, the book of laws, values, and foundations of all of humanity. The book is marked, highlighted, and full of thought and love. It is clear that this is an extraordinary young woman. Her victory is an impressive personal and family achievement. We are proud of you.”
Kisch also spoke during the ceremony, saying that “the Tanach quiz expresses the depth of the State of Israel’s connection to its origins and identity. The quiz is far beyond a knowledge competition; the Tanach is the moral and cultural identity of the Jewish people, a compass that accompanies us throughout the generations. It is precisely during this challenging time that we understand that we are not just studying the Tanach, but continuing to write its chapters.”
At the end of the event, it was emphasized that beyond the personal achievement of the winners, the quiz continues to serve as a bridge between Jewish communities around the world and strengthen the young generation’s connection to heritage, identity, and shared values.
Minister Kish added that “strengthening the young generation’s connection to heritage, values, and unity. I congratulate the winners on their impressive achievements and am proud of all the participants for their commitment to learning and deepening it. At this time in particular, the unity among us is not only a value, but a necessary condition for the strength and continuation of the State of Israel.”
Source:
www.jpost.com
