According to the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, 3,441 persons are registered to take the next semicha exam, representing a 40% increase. Towards meeting the challenge, the Rabbanut is certifying 60 testers in a one-day seminar.

The one-day seminar is a first as the Rabbanut prepares for the unprecedented number of persons being tested. The event was attended by Chief Rabbi Dovid Lau Shlita. the 60 persons, if certified, will also be marking the exams as additional manpower is required in meeting the large number of persons tested.

Officials are pleased with the growing number of persons interested in being tested, stating over 120 rabbonim have applied for the position to become one of the 60 testers.

Rabbi Lau noted that the dramatic increase in the number of students taking the exams among lomdei kollel and yeshivas prove the great trust and the great desire to receive accreditation from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)