Malkiya hosted around 1,500 people; only 150 remained. It was like separating cream from milk, or managing the number of train cars on steep slopes—very difficult.
At age 3, I immigrated to Israel with my parents. We joined the Vizhnitz Hasidic community in Haifa. By age 13, when I learned about the Holocaust, I concluded: either God is cruel and asleep at His post, or He does not exist; either way, I was done with Him.
Through the Nahal group, I arrived in Malkiya: there was frost, rocks, and hard work in the quarry—every morning we checked who had fled.
Be a mensch—observe your surroundings, figure out how you can contribute to society and the world. Live a life of purpose and mission.
My greatest pride is my family. I have lived a paradise-like life. At 18, I met Kochava, who was 17—we were together 65 years. We raised 4 children, now 42 grandchildren, including Nina, 18, who may soon marry. Kochava passed away; no one replaces a lifelong partner. I have enjoyed good health and continue to visit family. I have collected stamps for over 80 years and brought part of my collection to the hotel.
I also led the youth group in Malkiya for 4 years, caring for 50 children without homes. Two years ago, after 56 years, they organized my 90th birthday.
I remained a “dinosaur.” The relinquishment of the old kibbutz was a historical necessity. I led the privatization process, opening the kibbutz gates for new families. I initiated a community neighborhood attracting young couples.
87, born in Libya.
Immigrated from Morocco in 1949.
Her home is in Shlomi. Evacuated to the Dan Mount Scopus Hotel, Jerusalem.
Interviewer: Nava Tal
Age: 84
Born: Iran
Immigrated to Israel: 1951
Home: Kiryat Shmona
Evacuated to: An apartment in Migdal
Interviewer: Bracha Tor
Interview location: Oncology Day Clinic, Ziv Medical Center
90, born in Yemen.
Her home is in Shlomi. Evacuated to the Dan Mount Scopus Hotel, Jerusalem.
Interviewer: Nava Tal
83, born in India.
Immigrated to Israel in 1966.
Her home is in Shlomi. Evacuated to the Dan Mount Scopus Hotel, Jerusalem.
Interviewer: Nava Tal
70, born in Israel (Safed).
Her home is in Shlomi. Evacuated to the Dan Mount Scopus Hotel, Jerusalem.
Interviewer: Nava Tal
76, born in Tunisia.
Her home is in Shlomi. Evacuated to the Dan Mount Scopus Hotel, Jerusalem.
Interviewer: Nava Tal
70, born in Israel.
Her home is in Shlomi. Evacuated to the Dan Mount Scopus Hotel, Jerusalem.
Interviewer: Nava Tal
69, born in Israel (Tiberias).
Her home is in Shlomi. Evacuated to the Dan Mount Scopus Hotel.
Interviewer: Nava Tal
69.
Immigrated to Israel from the former Soviet Union in 1990.
Her home is in Shlomi. Evacuated to the Dan Mount Scopus Hotel, Jerusalem.
Interviewer: Nava Tal
70, born in Casablanca, Morocco.
Her home is in Shlomi. Evacuated to the Dan Mount Scopus Hotel, Jerusalem.
Interviewer: Nava Tal
69, born in Morocco.
Her home is in Shlomi. Evacuated to the Dan Mount Scopus Hotel, Jerusalem.
Interviewer: Nava Tal
