Torah scroll dedicated in memory of murdered shepherd Binyamin Ahimeir

On the first anniversary of the brutal terror attack that took the life of Binyamin Achimeir z”l, a deeply moving ceremony was held at Yeshivat Lev Chadash in Shiloh, where he had studied in his final years. The event was marked by a powerful blend of sorrow and hope as a Torah scroll was dedicated in his memory—ensuring that his legacy of faith and devotion endures.

Among the distinguished attendees were Israel’s Chief Rabbi, Rabbi David Kalman Bar; the head of Yeshivat Lev Chadash, Rabbi Sariel Ben Nisan; the president of Beit HaRamchal, Rabbi M. Shriki; Binyamin’s father, Rabbi Ofir Achimeir; as well as yeshiva students, family members, and close friends who had known and cherished Binyamin’s remarkable character.

Chief Rabbi Kalman Bar delivered an emotional address, reflecting on the spiritual significance of a yahrzeit and the extraordinary nature of Binyamin’s soul. “We often speak of a yahrzeit as an opportunity to elevate the soul,” he remarked. “But for Binyamin—that is unnecessary. The Talmud itself testifies to this.”

Quoting a passage, he elaborated: “The Talmud tells of a sage who ascended to the next world and returned. When asked what he saw, he replied: ‘I saw an upside-down world. Those esteemed here are barely seen there, and those disregarded here are held in highest esteem there.’ Of the martyred, the Talmud declares: ‘No being can stand in their presence.’ Binyamin is among them.”

He continued, “There are souls that, from the moment they arrive in this world, it is clear they belong to a higher one. They radiate light, yirat shamayim (awe of Heaven), and true humility. Binyamin was such a soul. What happened to his body shook us all—but his soul transcends what we can comprehend.”

The Torah scroll dedicated in his memory had been carefully written over many months, with the intention of completing and bringing it into the yeshiva precisely on this solemn occasion. The final letters were inscribed in the main synagogue of Shiloh, after which the scroll was carried in a procession of joyous song and dance toward Yeshivat Lev Chadash. Binyamin’s father, alongside yeshiva students, carried it with both pride and emotion.

Rabbi Sariel Ben Nisan spoke of Binyamin as a true ben Torah - an exceptional student with a gentle soul, beloved by both his peers and teachers. “He entered the yeshiva’s gates with an open heart - a ‘new heart’ - and left an indelible mark on all of ours. Today, we bring in this Torah scroll, but our hearts remain open. The pain stays with us. Our only comfort is Torah - it is eternal, it uplifts.”

One of the rabbis of the yeshiva further emphasized the significance of this dedication: “From now on, this Torah scroll will accompany our students in their daily study and prayer. It bears Binyamin’s name - a young man who dreamed of delving deeper into Torah, who loved his people, and who continues to inspire even after his passing.”

In the face of tragedy, the ceremony stood as a testament to resilience, faith, and the unwavering belief that the spirit of those taken too soon can live on through the sacred words of Torah.

Kikar Hashabat contributed to this article.