The Ponevizher Rav and the School for Girls

The Ponevizher Rav, R’ Yosef Kahaneman z”l, was known as an amazing fundraiser, a world-class Talmid Chacham, and a man of keen insight. Once, he approached a wealthy individual for a donation to build a school.

“I am not interested in your values,” said the man, “but I have national pride. I will donate a sizable sum to your school if you guarantee me that none of the students will wear a kippa.”

People were stunned when Rav Kahaneman agreed to the man’s outrageous terms.

Shortly thereafter, with the funds from this benefactor, the Rav opened a school for girls.