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Serving the Deal, Lakewood, & Surrounding Syrian Sephardic Communities *
Hundreds of Satisfied Customers ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ *
Many Rabbinic References *
Strict Adherence to Halachic Standards and the Latest Technology *
Safrut Brought from Eretz Yisrael Under the BADAT”Z Hechsher *
Information / FAQ
Bringing awareness to our community:
Informative Articles and What to Know Before Buying
— Did You Know —
Halachic Requirements
- All Sta”m is only assumed Kosher when purchased from a reliable source and checked properly.
- Mezuzot must be checked every 3 and 1\2 years.
- Tefillin worn daily need not be checked, however it is strongly recommended to check them every 7-10 years as the ink tends to crack.
- Although Sifre Torah do not require rechecking, it is recommended to scan them via computer every 20 years as technology improves and the ink ages.
— ALL IN THE DETAILS —
Shocking Percentages
of soferim in Israel have a valid, non-expired teudah. That leaves 90% without up to date credentials.
0
%
of problems found in STA”M were there initially, while the other 50% happen over time from moisture, fading, and cracking.
0
%
of Tefillin and Mezuzot sold, distributed, and in use nowadays are unfortunately pasul or bediavad.
0
%
of Sifre Torah that were recently checked were not halachically kosher or very bediavad.
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%
— Technological Advancements —
How the Laniado Safrut Center is Different
1. Don’t all Sifre Torah have a Chezkat Kashrut (Presumed Kosher Status)?
Only if everyone involved is properly certified, and the Torah was checked twice by hand, twice by computer, and once more after completion and all repairs. The Klaf and Giddim must also have valid certification. Without full documentation, we do not have a Chezkat Kashrut.
2. How did this happen without anyone realizing?
After many discussions with our Rabbis, it seems that the main cause is a lack of awareness and education of what is needed to ensure a Kosher Sefer Torah. The Sofer (scribe), Metayeg (who adds crowns), and Magiah (proofreader) each need current certification, and the Klaf and Giddim must have reliable supervision. Many buyers are misled by the sellers thinking their Torah is the ‘Best’, and no checking is done afterwards. Independent certification is essential—see our buying guide for details.
3. What types of problems are currently being found?
The most common issues are touching, cracking, misshapen letters, and improper spacing. Less common problems include holes, fading, and unfilled letters. Despite computer checks, about 10% of Torahs still have spelling errors. This is because computer checks only flag possible issues—the operator must know how to review and resolve them correctly. Additionally, many programs lack the resolution to detect cracks or touching letters, so it matters who and where the check is done.
4. What is the necessary amount of checking, and is a certificate that it was checked enough?
Every Sofer makes mistakes. With 245 columns and over 300,000 words, one review is not enough. Each Torah must undergo at least two careful hand checks, two computer checks, and a final check after any repairs. The checking must be done by reliable, G-D fearing, certified experts who are approved by our community rabbis. Certificates often omit key details like the scribe and proofreaders’ certification—follow the full guide to ensure Kashrut.
5. Am I halachically required to recheck a previously computer-scanned Torah with new technology?
Many Torahs have been found to have been originally-non-kosher, even after reading from it for many years. The original computer checks that operated in monochrome, revealed thousands of spelling errors previously missed by checkers and readers! New state-of-the-art 100+ megapixel cameras and new powerful software processing such as EyeTech can now detect even small cracks and touching letters which may also invalidate the Sefer. Rechecking with modern technology is essential.
6. Is third-party checking necessary if I if I bought my Torah from a reliable, Gadol-backed Sofer in Israel?
Many Torahs have been found to have been originally-non-kosher, even after reading from it for many years. The original computer checks that operated in monochrome, revealed thousands of spelling errors previously missed by checkers and readers! New state-of-the-art 100+ megapixel cameras and new powerful software processing such as EyeTech can now detect even small cracks and touching letters which may also invalidate the Sefer. Rechecking with modern technology is essential.
7. Does certification mean my Torah is 100% kosher?
No. Mistakes can always happen, yet it is an assurance that the Torah was checked in the best possible way. Some requirements such as the scribe’s intent, techniques of the proofreader, and origination of the materials cannot be verified later. Used Certification can only be given in regards to spelling, shape of the letters, spacing, and ink quality, and only when checked by a certified expert. Even modern computer checks can miss cracks, faded ink, holes, pencil marks, and other issues. Proper tools like a lightbox help assess ink quality and a qualified Magiah must go through the entire Torah and ensure all repairs are done before his issuing of any certification. Many times, a final computer check is suggested after all repairs are completed to eliminate the chances of the computer missing anything.
8. Are there different levels of certification?
Yes. Torahs can be Certified New (covering all requirements) or Certified Used (covering spelling, letter shape, and ink). Each type has Gold – Kosher Lechatchila (higher standard) and Silver – Kosher Bediavad (meets minimum).
9. What are some preventative measures we can take?
Ensure every Torah is properly certified, and maintain stable temperature and humidity in the Aron to reduce immature cracking and smudging.
— Our Process —
How It Works
1.
Browse
Search our extensive website for your product or service need
2.
Stock Up
Check the pricing page and look for any necessary accessories or add-ons
3.
Contact Us
Call, email or drop off your order and we’ll give you an estimated timeframe of completion
4.
Pay Up
Conveniently pay on the website via Credit Card or direct bank payment
5.
Pick Up
Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re fulfilling the mitzvah to the fullest