Three weeks ago, an unsettling incident occurred at a Tefillin stand in Tel Aviv, involving an Israeli man who threw eggs at the booth. However, in a surprising turn of events, the same man returned to offer his heartfelt apologies to the two bochurim who manned the booth.
As previously reported, the Tefillin stand, a regular feature every Friday near Nes Tziona, situated south of Tel Aviv, is managed by dedicated yeshiva students. Unfortunately, it became the target of an act of aggression when a passerby threw eggs at both the stand and the bochurim present.
The initial incident garnered significant attention and condemnation from various quarters, including politicians and public figures. The Israeli Police initiated an investigation into what was suspected to be a hate crime, underscoring the seriousness of the incident’s implications.
In a remarkable display of redemption, this Friday marked a different kind of encounter. Elad Levi, the individual behind the egg-throwing episode, revisited the Tefillin stand. This time, however, he came with sincere intentions.
Elad’s presence was met with unexpected warmth by the two bochurim, who chose to graciously accept his apology. Amid the olive branch extended by Elad, the bochurim went a step further, inquiring whether he would consider participating in donning Tefillin. The response Elad gave was nothing short of astonishing – he not only agreed but also announced his commitment to incorporate this practice into his daily routine moving forward.
This story serves as a powerful testament to the capacity for change and growth within individuals, even after moments of friction and animosity. Elad Levi’s decision to return to the scene of his own actions with the intention of making things right demonstrates the potential for reconciliation and understanding that exists within society.
In Israels current atmosphere where differences often lead to misunderstandings and conflict, stories like these offer a glimpse into the transformative power of empathy and the potential for a better future.
3 weeks after pelting eggs at a Chabad Tefillin stand in Israel, Elad Levi, who admitted to the act, came back to express remorse and put on Tefillin
The two young guys operating the stand accepted his apology. Elad has committed to make Tefillin a daily routine… pic.twitter.com/h21p7XQxzk
— Yitzchak Schochet (@RabbiYYS) August 14, 2023
Mi k’amcha. All should be blessed!