The Prototype

Tzfat, Israel → Tel Aviv, Israel

This is the first Torah in the Build a Torah story. It was funded by Rabbi David Cohen and was the second Torah he helped bring into the world. This Sephardic Torah was handwritten in Tzfat, Israel, starting in April 2022 and completed in August 2023. Its first Hachnasat Sefer Torah celebration took place on August 24, 2023, in Kfar Chabad, Israel. On December 26, 2023, it arrived at Lubavitch Aventura South in Florida for another celebration. From January 2024 to October 2026, it was used for prayers and Torah readings at Beth Eliyahu Mani Sephardic Shul (Bukharian Sephardic Jewish Center) at 4016 Royal Palm Avenue in Miami Beach. On October 19, 2026, the Torah returned to Israel and found its permanent home at Chabad on the Coast in Tel Aviv. From Tzfat to Miami and back to Israel, this Torah continues Rabbi David Cohen’s mission of bringing Torah, Jewish tradition, and community together.

The story in photos

Hachnasat Sefer Torah, Kfar Chabad

August 24, 2023

Arrival in Miami, Lubavitch Aventura South

December 26, 2023

Prayed with in Miami Beach, Beth Eliyahu Mani Sephardic Shul

January 15, 2024

Delivery at Final Destination: Chabad on the Coast – Tel Aviv

October 19, 2026

Writing begins
April 2022
Sephardi Torah writing begins in Tzfat, Israel, founded by Rabbi David Cohen.
Writing completed
August 2023
The final letters are completed.
Hachnasat Sefer Torah
August 24, 2023
Celebration of the Torah’s completion in Kfar Chabad.
Arrives in Miami
December 26, 2023
Another Hachnasat Sefer Torah celebration at Lubavitch Aventura South.
Prayed with in Miami Beach
January 2024 – October 2026
Beth Eliyahu Mani Sephardic Shul (Bukharian Sephardic Jewish Center), 4016 Royal Palm Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140.
Delivery at final destination
October 19, 2026
Chabad on the Coast – Tel Aviv, Israel.