Mazal tov to Elana Rosenblatt (Class of 2021) on placing fifth in the International Chidon HaTanach, which just took place in Jerusalem on Yom Ha’atzmaut. Elana placed second among non-Israelis. The international chidon tests students on approximately 400 perakim of Tanach.

When meeting with Elana to discuss her reflections of this momentous occasion and success, she shared how the “Chidon HaTanach has been a major part of my life for the past seven years.” She has been part of Chidon HaTanach since sixth grade when she was a student in RPRY. Elana continued to participate in the National Chidon HaTanach every year since then. When discussing how she came in third place at the end of 10th grade and second place at the end of 11th, it became clear how invested she was in growing and using her education to prepare for the international competition. She reflects upon the many hours spent as “quality time with my Tanach, learning on the bus, in school and at home.” Elana benefited from learning with Ruby Stepansky in 10th and 11th grade and Rabbi Ezra Frazer this past year.

While this year’s international competition was different due to COVID restrictions, Elana shared how “the coordinators of the Chidon HaTanach really tried to give us an amazing experience in spite of not being able to compete live in Israel.” The virtual event was enjoyable for Elana and she observed how the whole experience “pushed me to learn on my own, and made me excited to learn Tanach. I have really enjoyed my experience, and am so grateful that I had this opportunity.”

The entire Bruriah community sends an enthusiastic kol hakavod to Elana on all her hard work in preparing for the chidon!