By COLlive reporter
A young frum Jewish couple got married at the Jewish Community Synagogue in North Palm Beach, Florida, but but it was far from ordinary.
The couple in question, Zalman Raksin and Daniella Yadgar, originally planned the wedding to be in Israel, the kallah’s hometown and where most of her family resides. Friends and family from all over were set to gather there for the celebration.
However, all plans changed with Hamas launching a bloody war against Israel on Simchas Torah.
With family ties in Palm Beach County, plans were changed. The Synagogue’s Rabbi Leib Ezagui recalled the uncertainty surrounding their arrival, emphasizing the momentous decision to organize a wedding upon their safe arrival.
Raksin expressed his gratitude, stating, “This is just unbelievable… making it happen here within a week after leaving Israel and canceling the wedding over there.”
In just five days, every aspect of the celebration was meticulously arranged – from the floral arrangements to the cuisine and the musical arrangements.
Rabbi Ezagui underscored the resilience of the Jewish people in the face of adversity, stating, “We decided this couple has to get married… We move on. We grow. We rise above.”
While some of the originally invited guests were able to attend in North Palm Beach, many could not make the journey. Remarkably, a significant portion of those present were strangers who simply wanted to offer their support and contribute to the couple’s joyous occasion.
Adding to the occasion’s significance was an event that unfolded in Israel the night prior. The original wedding date, set at a venue near Jerusalem, coincided with a rocket incident at the precise time they were to exchange vows.
“It was like Hashem is with us,” the kallah said. The chosson added, “Thank G-d we weren’t there. And we weren’t supposed to be there.”
Raksin concluded with a poignant reflection on the significance of the occasion, stating, “The good and the mitzvah we are doing, which is getting married, is the biggest and best mitzvah you can possibly do as a Jewish person.”
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A beautiful couple and a beautiful celebration!
Chabad Palm Beach is where it is at!
Incredible story!!! Amazing job Rabbi Ezagui!!!
Best shluchim ever!!! Keep up the great work!!!
Just want to say, I grew up in Palm Beach Gardens as a secular conservative Jew. Today I have a shomer shabbos Chabad family because of the Ezaguis there.
May Hashem bentch them for their efforts.
MAZAL TOV, Zalman!
Beautiful wedding. Beautiful community. Amazing people.
Rebbetzin Chanie is so special. The kind kitchen she runs helps so so many! Kol hakavod