Testimonials

All my memories of the yeshiva can be summed up in a single sentence: everyone who graduates from Tomchei Temimim is a light to the world. Everyone who has passed through Brunoy has a unique characteristic that those who studied at other institutions do not possess. The concern for every Jew there is deeper. Your entire lifelong divine service is influenced by those years spent at the yeshiva.

I studied at the yeshiva between 1982 and 1987. From a material perspective, the food and conditions were difficult. We certainly didn't go hungry, but the choices were limited, and happy was he who possessed the key to the kitchen… From a spiritual perspective, we studied diligently; the classes were profound and magnificent, and the farbrengen were unforgettable. I had the distinction of being first in the Talmud and Tanya study competitions. The books I received as gifts still sit proudly on my living room bookshelf, recalling those blessed days and serving as the foundation of my spiritual life.

I vividly remember Rabbi Shmuel Lavakowski, whose lessons were taught with exquisite gentleness, and especially Rabbi Yehel Kalmenson, the Rosh Yeshiva, whose knowledge and lessons were, and remain, a true treasure of genius. I had the merit of being the chazan at the yeshiva many times during Shabbatot, and it is a role I still appreciate today. The sweetest memories of my youth are those of the yeshiva.

The yeshiva reigned with a pure simplicity that seems to have disappeared today. A simplicity and spiritual beauty that are difficult to find elsewhere.

I thank my father for sending me there, and the leadership of the Yeshiva for the extraordinary education they gave me.

And thank you to the Rebbe for the merit of having taken part in the building of this very precious institution.

I had the privilege of spending more than five formative years at Yeshiva Tomchei Tmimim in Brunoy, France—the same yeshiva where my father studied and where so many great Hasidim were trained. At just 14 years old, I moved from Melbourne, Australia, and from the moment I arrived, I felt at home. The warmth and dedication of the rabbis, especially my mashpia, Rabbi Zalman Segal, offered me unwavering support and guidance, instilling in me a deep love for Torah, mitzvot, being a Chassid, and being connected to the Rebbe.

The transition from Yeshiva Ketana to Yeshiva Gedola was a significant step, but the Yeshiva gave me the tools I needed to grow—both spiritually and personally. After completing my studies, I had the privilege of returning as a shaliach for two additional years, strengthening my Chassidishkeit and cultivating a deep Ahavat Yisrael—a love for every Jew.

Today, on the Rebbe's mission at the Lauder Business School in Vienna—the only Jewish university in Europe—I see firsthand how the foundation I learned at the Yeshiva continues to shape my life. The teachings, inspiration, and values I carry with me every day influence not only my students and community, but also my own family.

If you're wondering where to study, don't hesitate – Brunoy is the place to be.

I am eternally grateful for my experience at Yeshiva, and may we all merit the coming of the Mashiach very soon, in our time.

I studied at the yeshiva during the years 5771 and 5772. At the yeshiva, I absorbed a tremendous amount of love for one's neighbor, faith, trust, and, above all, Hasidic. In my eyes, I wasn't among the best students, but I deeply loved the yeshiva. Every moment spent there is etched in my memory and in my heart.

Today, as a major and officer in the IDF, holding a very important and significant position for the defense of Israel, with a heavy responsibility on my shoulders and commanding dozens of soldiers, I still draw strength from the yeshiva. Sometimes, when I struggle to make decisions or face an immense challenge with a soldier who is going through a trial or engaging in inappropriate behavior, the first thought that comes to mind is: How would Rabbi Zalman Segal, Rabbi Yechiel Kalmenson, or Rabbi Yitzchak Nemenov have acted in such a situation? What would they say? What message would they convey?

The yeshiva is still in my heart, and it is still there to light my way through the challenges that lie ahead.

Sometimes I miss that time spent at the yeshiva and feel a deep desire to return, even if only for a day.

My name is Sholom Lazar, emissary of the Rebbe and rabbi in the city of Sochi, Russia. I grew up in Moscow, where I completed my initial studies. After graduating from Yeshiva Ketana, I chose to continue my studies at Yeshiva Tomchei Tmimim in the city of Brunoy, France.

Looking back, I consider my time at Brunoy to be one of the most formative and meaningful of my life. From the moment I arrived at the Yeshiva, I felt fortunate and grateful. The warmth, dedication, and personal attention shown by the teachers and spiritual guides created a supportive environment where my friends and I could grow and develop every day.

The Brunoy Yeshiva was much more than an educational institution; it represented a warm home for me and a place that shaped my personality and spiritual journey. There, I not only acquired a deep understanding of Torah, but I also received the tools and perspectives to build a meaningful life vision, deeply connected to the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe.

Even today, in my work as an emissary and rabbi, I draw inspiration from the light and teachings I received during my years at the Yeshiva. The values and skills I acquired there accompany me every step of the way, and I strive to pass them on to every person I meet, with the goal of illuminating their world with Hasidic Torah and love of Israel.

I had the merit of studying in Brunoy for three years in the Guedola Yeshiva.

It is an experience that will remain forever etched in my heart.

This place is an island of holiness and spirituality within a material world.

There, we feel that divinity is self-evident and that the worlds are in perpetual renewal!

My father, who also studied in Brunoy in the 1970s, always told us nostalgically about this period of his life. He said that Brunoy was a place where "Tsimtsoum" (the divine contraction) never had any hold.

And when I studied there myself, I could see how little had changed...

The dedicated and exceptional teaching staff, the Hasidic friends, the administration that embodies a living example of Hasidus and connection with the Rebbe, and all this in an idyllic setting, in the heart of a forest, with excellent material conditions – all this makes learning at the Yeshiva an experience that shapes our personality for the rest of our lives.

I am happy to have had this privilege, and I will always be grateful for everything I received during these years of study in this magical place!

Even today, in my Shlichut as Rav of Beth Chabad, I constantly use the tools I acquired in Brunoy.

I would love to be able to take my community to spend Shabbat in Brunoy – then everything we study together would come to life before their eyes…

First of all, a huge thank you for all these wonderful years during which I had the merit of studying at the Yeshiva.

I am the fourth generation linked to Brunoy:

My great-grandfather, Rabbi Chaim Hillel Azimov, raised funds for the yeshiva. My grandfather, Rabbi Shmuel Azimov, studied there his entire life. My father, Rabbi Levi Azimov, was also a student of this yeshiva. And I had the privilege of continuing on this path.
The Brunoy Yeshiva is a unique place. The Rebbe himself said that it is "in the image of Lubavitch," and its founding is considered one of the great revolutions of French Judaism—a profound "birour" that would lead to the Geula.

I would like to share some special experiences that are etched in my memory:

The atmosphere

I still vividly remember my first day at the yeshiva, Rosh Chodesh Elul. Two weeks earlier, we had celebrated the 15th of Elul, the founding day of Tomchei Temimim. The atmosphere of that day was unforgettable.

The walls were covered with posters explaining the significance of this date, the dances were lively, and above all, the great Farbrengen brought together the 400 Bahurim with the leadership and the Machpi'im of the Yeshiva.

Then each class continued with their own Farbrengen with their Machpia until late into the night. They talked about the importance of Tomchei Temimim, the merit of being a "Tamim," and the dedication required of "those who go to war from Beth David."

As a 13-year-old Bahour entering yeshiva, this experience had a profound impact on me.

Attention paid to each person

Although Brunoy is a large yeshiva, and it is sometimes possible to feel lost there, the Rabbis, the leadership and the Machpi'im have always sought to give personal attention to each person.

I remember my Machpia had a long list of Bahurim who wanted to talk to him, but when it was our turn, we felt like we were his only concern, as if he had all the time in the world just for us.

The Strictness of the Sedarim – A Lifelong Impact

One of the fundamental pillars of Brunoy is respect for the Sedarim and acceptance of the 'Ol, elements that shape a person and mark them for life – both materially and spiritually.
These are just a few of the many things one could write about the yeshiva. But words cannot express the immense impact it has on our lives.
A huge thank you to the entire team—the management, the Mashpi'im, and the Rabbanim—who have always done their utmost to ensure that each Bahur can flourish, both materially and spiritually. Thanks to you, we are growing as Chassidim, connected to the Rebbe.

When I reflect on my time at the Brunoy Yeshiva, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and warmth. From the very beginning, even before I arrived at the yeshiva, I felt the kindness and dedication that define this place. The administration did everything possible to ensure I could attend the yeshiva, arranging my tuition so I could focus on my studies without worrying about financial concerns. This had a profound impact on me, but it was only the beginning of the extraordinary journey I would experience there.

When I arrived at the yeshiva, I was new to the world of Chabad, and I felt both excitement and a certain sense of apprehension. From the beginning, I received support every step of the way. I began in Shiur Gimel at the ישיבה קטנה, where I quickly felt I could openly express my questions and concerns to the הנהלה. They guided me with such care, investing time and effort to ensure that I progressed, not only in my study, but also in my personal development.

One of the essential things I learned at Brunoy was how to truly learn. I was taught how to analyze texts, how to write summaries (סיכומים) effectively, and most importantly, how to approach study with passion and clarity. And when it came to Hasidic, a field completely new to me, I was amazed by the yeshiva's investment in helping me understand and appreciate this teaching. This allowed me to find a connection to it that still nourishes me today.

By moving to Yeshiva Gedola, I had a solid foundation to build on. The Hasidic atmosphere at the Yeshiva was so inspiring that I continued to grow, both intellectually and spiritually. The classes, the Farbrengen, the attention of the הנהלה and the רמי׳׳ם, as well as the deep discussions we had, played a fundamental role in my formation and development. The warmth and sincerity of the administration, their true commitment to serving Hashem, left a deep impression on me. It shone through in every one of their actions, and their example inspired me to lead a life of truth and dedication.

The involvement of the Shluchim and their campaigns also added extraordinary energy and motivation to my experience. Whether through memorizing texts or participating in Mivtzaim, I was encouraged to be part of something big, something concrete, which brought a vibrant and dynamic dimension to my learning and growth.

Today, as a teacher of young children, I can say with certainty that my way of teaching and the values I transmit to them come directly from my time in Brunoy.

I am also involved in a Chabad house, where I teach weekly classes and participate in holiday celebrations, and I know that my commitment and motivation stem directly from everything I absorbed during my years in yeshiva.

Another important aspect of my time in Brunoy was the opportunity to learn Safrut (סופרות). I have always been fascinated by writing, and the Yeshiva allowed me to discover this sacred art. Today, I am proud to say that I am a Sofer, and this is entirely thanks to the teaching and guidance I received at Brunoy. The skills I learned there have enriched my life and have become an integral part of my service to Hashem.

When I think back to Brunoy, a deep sense of gratitude and warmth fills me. This yeshiva is, and will always remain, a place of truth, Hasidic, and genuine kindness. The teachings I received there continue to guide me every day, and I will be forever grateful for the impact it has had on my life.

Thank you, Brunoy, for everything you have given me. May you continue to be a source of light for many others.

My years at Yeshiva Tomhei Tmimim in Brunoy left an eternal imprint on me, a spiritual compass that guides and illuminates every day of my life.

Lifelong friends, dedicated teachers, enriching study, and an atmosphere deeply imbued with Hasidic: a genuine love for Hashem, for the Torah, and for one's fellow man.

The Brunoy Yeshiva is much more than a place of study. It is a world apart, a place where deep joy and pure sincerity are experienced daily. A place where one already lives with Mashiach.

I feel a close connection to the Brunoy Yeshiva. Right after the war, from its founding, my grandparents studied there. Sent by the Rebbe to Morocco and Tunisia, they founded schools that trained thousands of students in the path of Torah. My father also studied at Brunoy before becoming the Rebbe's Shaliah in Cannes. I followed the same path and was fortunate enough to study there in turn. Today, I am the Rebbe's Shaliah in Monaco.

Many friends of the Yeshiva have also become Shluhim of the Rebbe throughout the world.

The light of Brunoy thus shines far beyond its walls.

Today, I am extremely fortunate that my son is also studying there. I wish everyone the same privilege.

I studied at the Yeshiva for three years (1967-68-69).
I came from Tunisia, where my parents were emissaries of the Rebbe. Today, I am a Chalia'h in the city of Nice.
And thanks to G-d, with His help and the Rebbe's blessings, we have founded a thriving community, institutions, and many other emissaries who have joined us over the years.
These years of study at the yeshiva are essential for Hasidic life in general. But above all, they provide us with the foundation for communal responsibility—teaching, transmitting, and preserving our tradition. They also provide us with valuable experience in communicating with others. Indeed, at the yeshiva, I had the privilege (like many others) of sharing my knowledge with students who came during their vacations to quench their thirst for Torah study, the fulfillment of mitzvot, and Jewish life in the warm atmosphere of Chabad Hasidus.
I have had the merit of seeing my children and sons-in-law also study at the Yeshiva, and with God's help, this will continue in the future.
I thank the Yeshiva with all my heart!

Throughout my life, I will be grateful to the Yeshiva Tomchei Tmimim of Brunoy, as well as to its material and spiritual direction, which welcomed me with open arms and enabled me to stand tall in study, prayer and the ways of Hasidic during my youth, from the ages of fourteen to eighteen.
Today, as a Shlli'ah, I realize even more the immense privilege and spiritual richness I received during my studies at the yeshiva. I strive to pass these foundations on to my students and my community.

I still remember the first day I set foot in the Brunoy Yeshiva.

It was the beginning of the most beautiful experience of my life. Adolescence is not an easy time, but living it in the yeshiva, and especially in Brunoy, was a source of comfort and spiritual elevation for me.

From the very beginning, the teachers instilled in us a love and passion for Torah study and divine service. To this day, I cherish Tanya's profound insights, not to mention the many anecdotes full of warmth and wisdom taught by Rabbi Schmuel Brodowicz.

Rabbi Berele's patience and kindness continue to inspire me in my Gemara classes. And of course, how can I forget the enthusiasm and smile of Rabbi Shmuel Frankel, or the calm and clarity of Rabbi Mendel Eidelman, to whom I am particularly grateful? It is thanks to him that I was able to learn Yiddish, a language I deeply appreciate (especially being of Sephardic origin).

But how can we talk about Brunoy without mentioning the famous, memorable farbrengens we experienced? These Hasidic gatherings where the various rabbis completely changed their attitudes, sincerely sharing the subjects that were close to their hearts.

Rabbi Yermiyahu Nathan, for example, often told us the same story several times a year. It wasn't that he was repeating himself: he wanted the message to be imprinted on us. He must have told it three times at most, but to this day, I still share it in my Chabad house and with my children. This story tells of a Hasid whose Rebbe recommended reading the Nach. Upon reading the passage about the prophet Elisha, who had resurrected a young child, this Hasid, in his simplicity, did not hesitate, centuries later, to imitate the prophet to save his own son.

This is what the Yeshiva transmitted to us: simplicity and attachment to the words of the Rebbe.

Joy was also omnipresent in Brunoy. How can we not mention the smile and warmth of Rav Mendel Ebrahms, who didn't hesitate to dance with a teenager who needed a helping hand? How can we forget the fascinating discussions with my dear director, Rav Yoel Eidelman, who always took the time to explain and re-explain, with his subtle humor, why certain behaviors were to be avoided?

But Brunoy was also seriousness and sincerity, embodied in particular by Rav David Forst. How many times have I entered the zal (study room) after noon and found him alone, under his tallit, praying to God with all his heart?

During my fourth year, I had the good fortune and the honor of sleeping in Rav Yitzhak Nemanov's house. Was there no more room in the dormitory? No problem, Rav Nemanov welcomed us into his comfortable basement.

I was then able to experience firsthand what a true Hasid is: someone whose sole concern is the spiritual well-being of his Bahurim. A few days before the month of Nissan (the only full month of the year when the Bahurim are absent in Brunoy), I heard Rav Yitzhak, while walking through the halls, answering an older student who asked him how he was doing. He then paraphrased the Talmud (Suka 55b) by saying: kashe alay priddat'hem ("our separation is difficult for me").

It was also during this year that I attended the most exciting Hasidic classes of my life (and I mean that carefully). Rabbi Zalman Segal was a true catalyst for my passion for Hasidic. Even the most difficult students admitted, "You can't not listen to what he says. He lives it with such intensity that you're forced to listen."

Finally, I must confess that Brunoy is not part of my past. These moments shaped who I am and what I do today. These teachings give me the motivation to undertake my many projects. Each time I return there, a feeling of well-being and deep warmth invades me, and I remember how grateful I am for everything this yeshiva has transmitted to me.

I came to the yeshiva from Israel. There's no shortage of good yeshivas in the Holy Land, but a yeshiva like Brunoy exists nowhere else in the world. The study, the farbrengen, the warmth, and the unique atmosphere that reigned within its walls remain with me to this day.

Now, as an emissary and community rabbi in Rishon LeZion, I thank the yeshiva for the solid foundation it provided me. What I learned there, I strive to pass on to my students and members of my community.

My time at the yeshiva in Brunoy, France, was a truly transformative experience. It was not just a place of study, but an environment that opened my eyes to the deeper dimensions of Torah.

Through the study of Niglī and Hasidīth, I not only gained knowledge, but I also learned how to integrate these teachings into my daily life in practical and meaningful ways.

This experience was enriched by the extraordinary people I met there: rabbis, mashpi'im and fellow students, whose warmth, wisdom and friendship left an indelible mark on me.

The yeshiva was not just an academic institution; it was a community and a home that continues to inspire me every day.