Kefar Habad

What if I told you there’s a place near Tel Aviv where the spirit of Brooklyn thrives? Welcome to Kefar Habad, a unique village steeped in the rich traditions of the Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic movement. Kefar Habad’s story began in 1949. Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn spearheaded its creation as a haven for Jewish immigrants, primarily from the Soviet Union. These resilient individuals had endured the horrors of World War II and the oppressive Stalinist regime. They sought refuge and a place to rebuild their lives according to their beliefs. They yearned to live by their own toil and contribute to the land. Kefar Habad became that place, a testament to their resilience and dedication. Initially, the village was known as Tzafrir or Shafrir. Over time, it evolved into the Kefar Habad we know today. It’s not just a village; it’s a vibrant hub of Chabad life in Israel. It pulsates with spiritual energy and community spirit. One of the most striking features of Kefar Habad is a full-scale replica of 770 Eastern Parkway. This address is sacred to Chabad followers as the world headquarters of their movement in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. The replica in Kefar Habad stands as a powerful symbol of connection to their global community. Even the number of bricks used in its construction mirrors the original. This attention to detail highlights the deep reverence held for the original 770. Kefar Habad also serves as an educational center. It offers vocational training programs for young men in various trades. These include printing, mechanics, carpentry, and agriculture, all interwoven with religious instruction. Interestingly, many of the students come from outside the village and represent a diverse range of backgrounds, not just Hasidic. Kefar Habad has a railway station that connects it to the wider region. Built in 1952 and renovated in 1999, the station provides access to cities like Binyamina and Ashkelon. This accessibility reinforces Kefar Habad’s role as a vital center for the Chabad community. A tragic chapter in Kefar Habad’s history unfolded in 1956. A terrorist attack on the vocational school’s synagogue during evening prayers claimed the lives of five children and a teacher. Ten others were injured in the attack. This event underscores the challenges faced by the community and the importance of remembrance. Today, Kefar Habad stands as a symbol of perseverance, faith, and community. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity, and the spirit of Brooklyn finds a home in the heart of Israel. As you leave Kefar Habad, carry with you the story of this remarkable village. Remember the resilience of its founders, the vibrant energy of its community, and the powerful symbolism of its replica 770.