Rabbi Lubanov, Leningrad’s only rabbi, died Monday in his home at the age of 95, according to information received by his friend, Rabbi Arthur Schneier of the Park East Synagogue and president of the Appeal of Conscience Foundation. Rabbi Schneier spoke with the widow, Mrs. Lubanov and the president of the Leningrad Synagogue before leaving for the Soviet Union to attend the funeral today.
Rabbi Schneier said “the death of Rabbi Lubanov leaves a great void not only in the Leningrad Jewish community but throughout the Jewish community in the Soviet Union. He was the foremost Talmudic scholar and known for his piety, integrity and scholarship, and his great love for his people.” Despite his advanced age, Rabbi Schneier continued, “he carried the burden of responsibility for the spiritual destiny of Jews in Leningrad as their only guide and mentor.”
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