First Round of Chidon Competition Begins

972 students worldwide took the first qualifying test in the International Chidon HaMitzvos.

After months of learning new material and reviewing it long and hard, students from around the world took the first pre-Chidon test last Wednesday.

The Chidon coordinators WhatsApp group did not stop buzzing all morning as pictures were posted from 38 schools around the world who are participating in the competition.

Results from this test and the second qualifying test scheduled for next week will be combined to determine winners from each school. Chayolim who average a passing grade on both tests are eligible to join the international chidon Shabbaton, taking place in Crown Heights this Sivan.. The top two winners from each grade will compete against finalists of other schools at the game show event, a culmination of the Shabbos activities.

We can only imagine the tremendous smile that would be seen on the Rebbe’s face, as so many of his children, his Chassidim, dedicated many long hours of their free time to master the details of 613 mitzvos.

“There is no need to elaborate on how much it means to the Rebbe that every man, woman, and child study the daily portion of Rambam.” said Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, vice chairman of Merkos L’inyonei Chinuch. “Our goal with this initiative is that every child have a clear understanding of all 613 mitzvos.”

“We are looking forward to welcoming the contestants from around the world, and are planning an incredibly exciting Shabbaton for them here in Crown Heights!” says Rabbi Sholom Ber Baumgarten, chidon coordinator.

May this limmud bring us one-step closer to the coming of Moshiach, the time when we will be able to keep all 613 mitzvos.

Find out more about the chidon event at chidon613.com.