MOVING: Hamas Captivity Survivor Undergoes Bris and Receives New Name in Emotional Ceremony

[Video below.] In a moving scene in Moscow, Maxim Harkin — who was freed from Hamas captivity on Hoshana Rabbah after 738 harrowing days — marked a powerful spiritual milestone. Strengthened in his faith during his time in Gaza, he underwent a bris milah.

Presiding over the event was Russia’s Chief Rabbi, Rav Berel Lazar, joined by guest of honor Rav Dovid Yosef, who traveled specially for the occasion. At the conclusion of the ceremony, Harkin received his new Hebrew name: Zalman Zelig.

The celebration continued later that evening at a Yud Tes Kislev seudah, attended by hundreds. There, Zalman Zelig Harkin publicly expressed heartfelt gratitude for the miracles that brought him to freedom, offering words of thanks and inspiration that deeply moved the crowd.

The festive gathering featured singers Yanky Daskal, Moshe Louk, and child soloist Ari Kraus, accompanied by the Malchus Choir and Mendy Brandwein’s orchestra.

WATCH:

{Matzav.com}