A remarkable milestone unfolded in Derbent, a historic city in the Islamic Russian republic of Dagestan, as a cornerstone was laid for a brand-new shul.
What set this moment apart was that the funding for the entire project came from a Muslim philanthropist.
Suleyman Kerimov, a billionaire and influential figure in the area, generously contributed a significant donation toward the creation of the Jewish complex, which will bear the name “Yerushalayim of Darbent.”
Kerimov explained that his motivation was to foster peace and mutual understanding between the religious communities in the region.
Russian Chief Rabbi Berel Lazar was among those who took part in the ceremony, which occurred just a few days before Pesach. Numerous Muslim religious leaders and local officials also participated in the special event.
“This is proof that it is possible to live together with mutual respect despite the difference in religion and faith,” Rabbi Lazar declared during his speech. “The new shul will be a symbol of coexistence and peace.”
The significance of Kerimov’s contribution is even greater considering recent history. Less than a year earlier, radicals set fire to a synagogue in Derbent, destroying nine Sifrei Torah. Fortunately, there were no injuries in the attack.
Derbent holds the distinction of being one of Russia’s most ancient cities, and its Jewish community is among the oldest anywhere in the world. During his stay, Rabbi Lazar, together with the city’s rabbi, Rabbi Ovadiah Issakov, and community leader Baruch Eliyashiv, toured the historic shul , which is currently undergoing restoration.
As part of the celebration, letters were placed into a time capsule, intended to be opened a century from now. In his message, Rabbi Lazar wrote of his confidence that the tradition of baking matzos would endure and expressed his hope that by the time the capsule is opened, the third Bais Hamikdash would already stand in Yerushalayim.
Throughout the development of the project, Kerimov maintained close contact with Rabbi Lazar, seeking his guidance on various aspects, both practical and halachic. After the ceremony, the businessman also proudly showed Rabbi Lazar the city’s impressive new multimedia fountain—reportedly the largest in Russia—and a modern tourism center featuring exhibits about Derbent’s rich history.
{Matzav.com}