Shlomo Hillel, one of the veteran and well-known learners at the MDY Beit Midrash in Beit Shemesh, launched a moving and unique initiative in honor of the Chanukah holiday, distributing a personal gift to all the learners of the study hall.
Shlomo told the *MDY Friends* website that the idea was born out of deep reflection about the role of a father who studies Torah within family life:
“Throughout the year, the father leaves the house in the evening—he steps away from putting the kids to bed and from time with his wife and children—in order to go learn Torah. We felt there needed to be a counterbalance. Something that brings back home a good atmosphere of togetherness.”
As part of the initiative, every learner who entered the beit midrash received a gift: a family card game accompanied by a special MDY greeting and a Daf Yomi sheet from Rabbi Eli Stefansky.
The chosen gift—the card game **“Zig Zag – A Pairs Competition”**—is currently considered a major hit in the Haredi community. It is a popular family game that combines knowledge, quick thinking, and cooperation, and is suitable for all ages, making it a favorite in many households, particularly during the days of Chanukah.
Shlomo shared that he devoted considerable time to selecting the game:
“I went to different stores, checked out board games, and did a lot of research. I said to myself that if we’re going to do this, it should be something truly high quality.”
Rabbi Eli Stefansky, who heard about the initiative in advance, welcomed it with great enthusiasm. The leadership of the beit midrash also took part in the planning, and the initiative was carried out following joint discussion and coordination. According to Shlomo, the atmosphere in the beit midrash was special:
“It was a surprise. People aren’t used to receiving gifts just like that. It created tremendous joy and a very warm atmosphere.”
Shlomo financed the project with a combination of contributions from friends and fellow learners, covering the remaining costs from his own pocket. Still, he emphasizes: “The credit belongs to MDY and to the rabbi. The goal was simple—to honor the Daf Yomi learners in the Beit Midrash in Beit Shemesh.”
Shlomo also expressed hope that the initiative will become an annual tradition:
“This should definitely become a yearly event. Those who labor in Torah deserve it. It is a privilege to give.”