The final strokes: Torah scribed in Israel is completed in Kailua-Kona

To witness the completion of a Torah is a monumental, rare event. A Torah was commissioned by Norbert Lempert in honor of his father and scribed in Israel. The final letters were written in a ceremony Sunday at King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel. The one-of-a-kind Torah has koa and mango wood rods.

Once the final letters were written by the sofer, or scribe, the Torah was carried down Alii Drive under a canopy accompanied by music and dancing.

Visitors to the monthly Kokua Kailua village stroll were treated to the procession and joyous celebration as the Torah made its way to its new home at the Chabad House on the corner of Kuakini Highway and Hualalai Road. There, the existing Torahs welcomed the new addition and were placed in a new tabernacle constructed of koa and mango wood.

The celebration continued at the house of worship, where members from temples throughout the state joined in welcoming the new Torah to the community.

To learn more, email ChabadBigIsland@gmail.com.

Email Laura Shimabuku at lshimabuku@westhawaiitoday.com.