Posted on 01/08/18
The idea of daily learning has deep roots. The Daf Ha-Yomi, learning a daily page of Gemara, sparked in 1923 by Rabbi Meir Shapira of Lublin, is in its 13th cycle, with thousands throughout the world learning alone or in groups.
On Chanukkah 5775, December 2014, the first cycle of a new learning initiative of Tanakh began under the name 929. The website for 929 changes daily at midnight, with a new daily chapter along with information, written explanations and video option.
929 has encouraged the establishment of study groups throughout Israel. Israeli President Reuven Rivlin and First Lady Nechama Rivlin have hosted 929 study sessions on a regular basis at Beit Hanasi. Their study table has hosted a variety of Israeli scholars over the years, with invited guests filling the large hall of the Israeli Presidential Residence.
On כ טבת January 7, Shir HaShirim, Pasuk hey, was read by veteran Israeli radio personality and actor Dan Caner to the crowded room. President Rivlin spoke, as did 929 founder Rav Benny Lau, Tanakh educator Dr. Gili Zivan, and author Mira Magen.
Among the honored guests seated at the table were President of the Israeli Supreme Court Esther Hayut, and former Israeli Supreme Court Judge Elyakim Rubenstein and Miriam Rubenstein. Singer Erez Lev Ari provided musical interludes.
The current cycle of 929 is to end the summer of 2018, to coincide with the celebration of Israel's 70th anniversary.
