The Skverer rebbetzin, Chaya Chana Twersky, wife of Skverer rebbe of New Square, died on Sunday at age 81, prompting an outpouring of condolences from across the Haredi world as well as from New York’s leading political figures.
Chaya Chana Twersky was the wife of New Square leader Rabbi David Twersky, grand rabbi of the Skver sect, and daughter of the late Rabbi Moshe Hager, the previous rebbe of Vizhnitz of Bnei Brak, Israel. A scion of numerous Hasidic dynasties, she was also the sister of Sasha Teitelbaum, wife of Satmar rebbe Aaron Teitelbaum of Kiryas Joel, and Sarah Rokeach, wife of Belzer rebbe Yissachar Dov Rokeach of Jerusalem. Her funeral was held Sunday evening in New Square and drew thousands of Haredim from across New York State and beyond.
In Hasidic communities, the rebbetzin — or rabbi’s wife — is typically far less publicly visible than her husband, but often plays a significant role behind-the-scenes, even as men occupy virtually all public-facing leadership positions. While some rebbetzins are publicly active among the women of their communities, such as taking an active leadership role in girls’ schools and organizing women’s fundraising events, others maintain only a ceremonial presence. Haredi media outlets typically do not publish any photos of women, including rebbetzins.
Levaya Attended by Thousands
The levaya, held on a solemn Sunday night, saw an unprecedented outpouring of grief and respect. Thousands of Chassidim, alongside prominent rebbes and community members, gathered to pay their final respects. The emotional ceremony took place at the main bais medrash in Shikun Skver, reflecting the profound impact Rebbetzin Twersky had on her community and beyond. Her loss was not only a personal blow to her family but a communal one, deeply felt by all who were touched by her kindness and wisdom.
A Legacy of Compassion
Rebbetzin Chaya Chana Twersky’s legacy is one of profound compassion and unwavering support. She stood by her husband, the Skverer Rebbe, as a pillar of strength, guiding the tens of thousands of Chassidim with humility and grace. Her contributions to the spiritual and physical well-being of New Square’s residents have left an indelible mark. As the community mourns, they also celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who exemplified the virtues of hospitality, knowledge, and devotion.
In the wake of her passing, Rebbetzin Twersky leaves behind a bereaved husband, children, grandchildren, and a community that feels deeply orphaned. Yet, her memory and the values she embodied will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide the community of New Square and beyond for generations to come.
גרויס טרויער נעמט ארום די עולם החסידות אין חסידי סקווירא בפרט מיט די פטירה פון הרבנית הצדיקת מסקווירא ע”ה, מחברתו הטהורה פון כ”ק אדמו”ר מסקווירא שליט”א, און און עלטסטע טאכטער פון הרה”ק בעל ישועות משה מוויזניץ זי”ע, שוועסטער פון כ”ק האדמורי”ם מוויזניץ שליט”א, די גרויסע לוויה איז פארגעקומען נעכטן אויפדערנאכט אין שיכון סקווירא במעמד אלפי חסידי סקווירא,
