In a powerful display of faith and community support, Alexandre Sasha Troufanov, who was released Saturday in the sixth phase of the hostage deal from Islamic Jihad captivity, marked his first full day of freedom by putting on tefillin at Sheba Medical Center, joined by Russia's Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar, who traveled to Israel specifically for this emotional reunion.
Following the tefillin ceremony, Rabbi Lazar presented Troufanov with a personal gift: a new tefillin set and prayer book, both customized with his name on the case and cover.
The news of Troufanov's release sparked celebrations throughout Russian Jewish communities, with particular jubilation in his birthplace of Rostov. "Sasha is coming home! Our hearts overflow with joy!" announced Rabbi Chaim Danzinger, who serves as both Chief Rabbi and Chabad emissary in Rostov.
In the hours following Shabbat's conclusion – during which his Shabbat-observant grandmother made her way to the hospital for their touching reunion – Troufanov engaged in a heartfelt video conversation with Rabbi Berel Lazar, currently in Israel celebrating his daughter's marriage to the son of Rabbi Avraham Wolf, who leads Chabad activities in Odessa and southern Ukraine and established the 'Family' orphanage.
"I deeply appreciate all your efforts, you are truly remarkable people," Troufanov expressed with sincere emotion to Rabbi Lazar, who had been actively working with high-ranking government officials. "Your heart is immense, and you must continue your vital work. Your faith and compassion are extraordinary, thank you!"
Responding to Troufanov's request, Rabbi Lazar visited this morning for their first in-person meeting, where Troufanov donned tefillin for the first time and recited the Shema Yisrael prayer with profound devotion. He shared reflections on how his faith sustained him throughout his captivity and spoke of his strengthened trust in God.
Ilana, Troufanov's mother, made an impassioned appeal to Jewish women and girls worldwide to light Shabbat candles for those still held in Hamas captivity.
Jewish communities across former Soviet Union states participated in numerous events supporting Troufanov's release and that of all hostages, organized by Chabad emissaries and community rabbis. Rostov hosted multiple gatherings and prayer services.
Troufanov's roots in Rostov run deep. Born there, he immigrated to Israel with his mother, Yelena, at age two. His grandmother, Irina, maintained active involvement with the community, regularly attending synagogue classes and events at the Rostov Jewish community center until her aliyah approximately one year before October 7.
Rabbi Lazar conducted extensive behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts, maintaining crucial connections with various parties involved in negotiations. He also hosted the Troufanov family in Moscow multiple times since October 7.
"The special bond between Troufanov and Russia's Jewish community illustrates the enduring connection between Russian Jewish immigrants to Israel and their original communities," noted a source from the Federation of Jewish Communities in Russia.
As Jewish communities celebrate Troufanov's return, they maintain their focus on those still in captivity. Rabbi Danzinger emphasized this ongoing commitment: "Our prayers continue for the safe return of all remaining hostages."
