History shared by Rabbi Jay Perlman, Yom Kippur 2015 Sermon

Throughout the Middle Ages and beyond the Jewish communities of Europe knew well the experiences of ongoing persecution and anti-Semitic uprisings. Yet throughout, these very same Jewish communities – large and small – continued to find ways to flourish – to bring Judaism to life – and to create. One of these places was the town of Soběslav in Czechoslovakia. Some time during either the 1700s or early 1800s a special sofer – or Torah scribe was called upon to pen a most unique Torah scroll.

This text would be, what is referred to, as a Kabbalistic or mystical scroll….And its writer – specially trained in the art of Kabbalah would scribe each of the letters with particular mystical focus and by using a unique calligraphic style.

Ultimately, it would become a spiritual and sacred work of art that its owners hoped would inspire generations of Jews.

When the Nazis rose to power and invaded Czechoslovakia – tragically, the Soběslav scroll – along with thousands of other Torahs in communities across the country-side – were in danger from the Nazis.

However, with the defeat of Nazi Germany, many of the Czech scrolls that had been taken were brought to London where they were held by the Westminster Synagogue. Eventually, a number of these Torahs would be shared – on permanent loan – with synagogues around the world as a testament to the hope and promise of a Jewish people which has continually found a way to survive.

A number of years ago, thanks to the work of the Grossman family and Rabbi Sonsino – the mystical Torah scroll of Soběslav – found its way to its new home, here at Temple Beth Shalom.

While the sign that we have for this Torah states that it was penned in the 19th century – a sofer who recently appraised this text for our community has told us that he believes that it is actually over 300 years old – and is one of the most unique Torahs that he has ever seen.

During the past few years, our congregation through beloved members, Florence and Jerry Schumacher, has formed a special bond with the town of Soběslav – near Prague. Thanks to Florence and Jerry, the building – now a private home – which had served as the town synagogue was identified. With the help of a local guide, we have been in touch with the owners of the property as well as with town officials. And, I am proud to say that in the coming weeks, a specially created plaque – written in both English and Czech – will be dedicated near the site. Some distant relative of Jerry’s – who are still living in the area – will be there for the ceremony….and by extension – through the Schumacher family – will be representing all of us.

The plaque reads: Here lived the heart of the Soběslav Jewish community. This community began in the early 16th Century and ended when the Nazis deported its last residents to Theresienstadt in November, 1942. During the time the synagogue was active, its walls were filled with prayer, song, celebration, and learning by men, women, and children. May their memories be for a blessing.

Memorialized in 2015 by Temple Beth Shalom in Needham, Massachusetts, USA where a Torah scroll saved from Soběslav continues to be a source of wisdom and light.