#138 - Dayan Yechezkel Abramsky I - Rosh Hashana Episode

History for the Curious - The Jewish History Podcast

Brought up in a village which did not have a minyan of Jews; a self-taught child genius.

His life was shattered by the Russian civil war and the new anti-religious communist Soviet Union. He was hounded, arrested and eventually imprisoned in Siberia, but his faith remained untouched.

His thoughts and writings on Prayer emerge through this period of his life.

Summary

This conversation delves into the life of Dayan Abramsky, a Jewish figure who faced immense challenges during the Soviet regime. It explores his arrest, the impact on his family, his resilience in the face of adversity, and the international efforts made for his release. The discussion also highlights his reflections on faith, prayer, and the significance of Eretz Yisrael in Jewish identity.

Take-aways

Faith played a crucial role in survival during hardships.

The Chafetz Chaim's letter was pivotal in seeking help.

Rav Abramsky’s early education shaped his future leadership.

The civil war in Russia had devastating effects on the Jews.

Important ideas for prayers on Rosh Hashana & Yom Kippur

Chapters

00:00 The Arrest and Its Impact

03:12 Survival in Adversity

06:02 The early years of Dayan Abramsky

08:54 Education and Influences

11:45 The Turbulent Times of War

15:09 Resistance Against Oppression

18:02 The Struggles of Jewish Life in the Soviet Union

20:53 Imprisonment and Interrogation

24:14 International Efforts for Release

27:07 Reflections on Suffering and Faith

29:55 The Journey to Freedom

33:13 The Aftermath and New Beginnings

36:06 The Connection to Eretz Yisrael