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Historic Composition Recreated 130 Years After Dedication of the Kaliningrad Synagogue

Great excitement in the city of Kaliningrad as the theatrical composition “Lift Up Your Heads, O Ye Gates”, composed for the building’s dedication 130 years ago, was performed once again | A letter from the management of “Kollel Chabad” revealed a heavenly closing of a circle between the philanthropist from Königsberg who built the “Ohel Yitzchak” Shul in Mea Shearim, and the grandson of one of the place’s founders, who currently serves as an Shliach in the city • Read More, Photos

During the days of the month of Elul, the month of mercy and forgiveness, an atmosphere of special spiritual elevation is felt throughout the Jewish communities in Russia. In the city of Kaliningrad (known by its historic name, Königsberg), this uplifting spirit reached its peak recently as the community marked 130 years since the establishment of the city’s grand and magnificent synagogue. The impressive building—which was the only synagogue in modern-day Russian territory to be completely destroyed in the flames of Kristallnacht—was rebuilt from its ashes eighty years later, on those exact historic foundations.

Today, the place stands as a beacon of Torah and loving-kindness, led by the Mara D’asra, Rabbi Dovid Shvedik, and the Shaliach, Rabbi Avraham Baruch Deutsch, who guide the community’s life in loyal adherence to authentic Jewish tradition.

Hundreds of community members, public figures, and friends packed the synagogue’s sanctuary for the moving event. The president of the Jewish community, Mr. Eliezer Yermiyahu Flitman, opened with remarks, sharing the history of the extensive community with the attendees. Afterwards, the Chief Rabbi of Kaliningrad, Rabbi Dovid Shvedik, stirred hearts with the blowing of the shofar, and delivered an emotional address about the tremendous privilege of continuing Jewish activities in such a significant building for 130 years. During the evening, certificates of appreciation were also distributed to friends of the community, in recognition of their dedicated contributions and efforts throughout the entire year.

The historical climax of the evening occurred when the synagogue choir began to sing the composition “Se’u She’arim Rasheichem” (Lift Up Your Heads, O Ye Gates). This piece was composed by Eduard Birnbaum, who served as the chief cantor in Königsberg, specifically for the opening of the synagogue exactly 130 years ago. Replaying it and performing it with theatrical precision in that very same sanctuary echoed the “Eternity of Israel” and evoked intense emotion among the audience. These melodies merged with the stirring violin renditions of “Kol Nidrei” and “A Yiddishe Mamme”, immersing the participants in the awakening atmosphere of the High Holidays.

At the beginning of the event, a special letter sent for the occasion by the Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar, was read aloud. In the letter, the Rabbi emphasized the Divine Providence in uncovering the original foundations upon which the community is built today, joyfully noting: “The spiritual transformation this place has undergone—from a synagogue that was formerly liberal to a synagogue that now leads an Orthodox community—is the most profound proof that the Jewish heart always yearns for the pure source.”

Further excitement was felt with the opening of a spectacular exhibition in the building’s museum, featuring historic photos from the “Baal HaTanya Shul” in Jerusalem. Alongside the photos, a letter was displayed, sent in honor of the occasion by Rabbi Moshe Shmuel Deutsch on behalf of the management of the “Kollel Chabad” organization – the grandfather of the city’s Shaliach. The letter revealed a wondrous historical closing of a circle: 130 years ago, a distinguished philanthropist from Königsberg named R’ Yitzchak Shub contributed to the establishment of the Chabad synagogue “Ohel Yitzchak” in the Mea Shearim neighborhood in Jerusalem. Now, the grandson of one of the founders of that Jerusalem synagogue serves as a Chabad emissary, working to make Jewish life flourish in the donor’s city of origin.

The Kaliningrad community, still deeply moved by the impressions of the historic event, is now preparing with great excitement for the month of the Tishrei holidays. The chain of uplifting events is expected to reach its climax soon with the welcoming of a new, magnificent Torah scroll into the synagogue’s sanctuary, generously donated by Mr. Eduard Elchanan Migirov from Moscow, in merit and honor of his parents, Avraham and Sarah. From within the walls of this magnificent house, the community will continue to illuminate the entire city with a great light of Torah and Chassidus.

Photography: Andrey Boyts