Marking twenty years of service and dedication, Moshav
Matityahu paid tribute to Rabbi and Rebbetzin Zeev Leff, with
an elegant "Evening of Appreciation and Thanks" at the
Sheraton Plaza Hotel in Jerusalem. Over three hundred people
participated in this evening of heartfelt emotions and
hakoras hatov for Rabbi and Rebbetzin Zeev Leff.
Rabbi Meir Kessler, rav of Kiryat Sefer, spoke, as did
several other rabbonim. The audience was treated to
wonderful, inspirational and entertaining divrei Torah,
warm and sincere praise and timely and topical insights by
all the guest speakers. In addition, a wonderful letter of
brochoh sent by HaRav Eliashiv was read at the dinner.
The Rav, truly moved by this outpouring of gratitude, told
the "true story" of life in Israel 20 years ago including
some of the hardships and tzoris. Most importantly, the
Rav expressed profound hakoras hatov to the Rebbetzin.
Leaving behind a lifetime position at a North Miami Beach,
Florida, congregation, Rav Leff moved to Israel to live on a
hilltop high and away from all else: Moshav Matityahu. "It
took me seven hours to get to Jerusalem and back again for a
shiur," remarked the Rav.
But the clincher came the night many years ago that the Rav,
unable to fill his car's gas tank due to a dusk-to-dawn
petrol strike, had to sleep in his car at the gas station.
Bewildered and outraged, the Rav parked where the attendant
had suggested and fell asleep. In the middle of the night,
the Rav awoke, a bit stiff but with a sense of humor. "I
asked myself, `Did I make aliyah in order not to sleep in a
gas station?' "
Tired, weary, but strong, the Rav affirmed that after this
incident nothing could take him and his family away from
Eretz Yisroel.
One of today's leading darshonim, Rav Leff's
captivating lectures, compelling words and fascinating
insights have inspired students, teachers and colleagues
throughout the world. His warmth, care, kindness and
sensitivity have touched a broad and eclectic mix of Jews in
a host of prestigious institutions.
