This past Motza’ei Shabbos, February 8, a moving melaveh malkah was held at Yeshiva Ohel Simcha in memory of Miriam bat Osnat a”h (Pinkhasov) on the occasion of her first azkarah. Organized by Chazaq in conjunction with Lev Miriam, an organization run by her friends in her memory, brought together family, friends, and members of the Queens Jewish community to honor her legacy. The evening not only paid tribute to Miriam’s life but also shed light on the vital importance of communal support for at-risk youth.
The event was marked by heartfelt speeches from her husband, Rabbi Azarya Pinkhasov, the mara d’asra Rav Yigal Haimoff, and Rav Gavriel Elbaz. Each speaker imparted words of wisdom and reflection, touching on themes of faith, resilience, and the hidden miracles that shape our lives.
Rav Gavriel Elbaz captivated the audience with a powerful message on faith, and understanding the hidden workings of Hashem.
“There are moments in life,” he remarked, “when we are struck by situations that leave us bewildered, searching for answers. The questions of “why” and “how” often plague us. But Hashem, in His infinite wisdom, orchestrates the world in ways that are beyond our comprehension. Just as the fire on the Mizbei’ach was a miraculous act masked by a natural flame, so too are many of the challenges we face – hidden miracles, tests of faith meant to strengthen us.”
He further elaborated on the balance between revealed and hidden miracles, emphasizing that Hashem rarely performs open miracles. Instead, He cloaks them within the natural order, allowing people to choose whether to see His divine intervention or not. “Life is a tapestry,” Rav Elbaz continued. “We are too close to the picture to understand the masterpiece. Only by stepping back can we begin to appreciate the full design.”
Rav Yigal Haimoff spoke on the profound strength required to endure life’s trials and emerge with faith intact.
“The greater the test, the greater the person,” he stated. “Every one of us is ‘employed’ by Hashem. Some are given overtime, extra burdens, but only because Hashem knows they can handle it. The key is to transform these challenges into growth. Just as Yosef HaTzadik was repeatedly tested before rising to greatness, so too are we molded by our trials.”
Rav Haimoff spoke of the incredible resilience of Rabbi Azarya Pinkhasov, who, despite unimaginable loss, has continued to be a pillar of strength for his children and community. “Azarya’s unwavering faith and perseverance serve as a testament to the power of emunah. His ability to carry on, not just for his children but for those around him, is nothing short of inspiring.”
Perhaps the most moving words of the evening came from Rabbi Azarya Pinkhasov himself, who spoke about his late wife’s unwavering dedication to her family and community.
“When everything happened,” he said, “I didn’t know what to make of it. Every day was another day of uncertainty. But the best advice I received during the shiv’ah was this: Turn to Hashem.”
Rabbi Pinkhasov recounted how his wife’s selflessness knew no bounds. “Miriam lived for others: her children, her students, her community. She put herself last so that those around her could thrive. Whether it was ensuring that I had the time to learn, taking care of our children with endless love, or supporting at-risk youth through her work, she gave of herself entirely.”
He also emphasized the need to support organizations like Chazaq, which provide safe spaces and mentorship for young individuals. “Too many of our children come home to empty houses, left to navigate life’s challenges alone. It is our responsibility as a community to step in, to be there for them, just as Miriam was for so many.”
As the evening drew to a close, attendees were left with a renewed sense of purpose. The legacy of Miriam Pinkhasov a”h is one of kindness, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to Torah values. Her memory serves as a guiding light, reminding us to cherish our loved ones, strengthen our faith, and support those in need.
“In moments of darkness, we must find the strength to push forward,” Rav Elbaz concluded. “Because on the other side of that struggle, Hashem is waiting to greet us as victors.”
May her neshamah have an aliyah, and may her legacy continue to inspire and uplift am Yisrael. Y’hi zichrah baruch. May Hashem grant strength to the extended Pinkhasov family. May they continue to be blessed with resilience, faith, and divine protection, and may we merit to witness the coming of Mashiach speedily in our days.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
