A Torah scroll worth NIS 150,000 (approx. $38,000 – $40,000) was stolen this weekend from the synagogue in Ziv Medical Center in Tzefat (Safed).
Police have launched an investigation.
Every government hospital in the State of Israel has a synagogue on the premises and Sabbath services are conducted each Shabbat and holiday.
The theft of a Torah scroll from a synagogue is a devastating loss for any congregation, but particularly so for those in a hospital where family members are often praying for loved ones who are fighting for their lives. Sometimes it is the very patients themselves who have managed to make it to the synagogue to offer their prayers for their own recovery.
Such a theft is a despicable act that can only result in a curse not only to the thief, but also to those who aid in any sale of such a holy object.
Those who may have information about the Torah from Ziv Hospital are asked to please call the national Israel Police “100″ line .
