The following passages are in Ivri Anokhi, 5 January 1872, under the heading Russland [Russia], with a dateline Brisk D'Lita, 1872:
The writer, Alexand AV”I [perhaps Avrahm, son of Israel], intends to inform his readers in other cities and towns about the greatness of Brisk, its glorious past, and present charity and prosperity. He wishes other cities to follow Brisk as an example of good takanot and charity. The translation:
The author describes the charitable resources of Brisk:
The translation:
There is Talmud Torah, a hospital, and support for widows and orphans, Bikur Kholim [care for the sick poor].
In the past we had big yeshivas. Not now.
The author describes the development of different Jewish sects:
West of Brisk – Poland, on its right – district of Volhin differing from Brisk spiritually. In lita the Torah is established, in Poland – Hassidism is on the rise, in Volhin various influences.
The spirit of Lita excels
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In the following part of the article the writer describes the source of Brisk’s wealth:
The city is now on a crossroads. Railroads lead to Moscow, to Warsaw, to Kiev, to Leek, and to Preisen. It is now a passageway for trade to the States. All of the crops of Vohlyn is exported through Brisk. Moscow competes with Warsaw and exchanges trade.
The railroad to Warsaw opened two years ago and not many days ago reached Moscow as well.
Next summer the work on the construction of the railway to Freisen and Vohlyn will start. This year is blessed for Brisk because there are many workers on the railway
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This year is blessed for Brisk because there are many workers on the railway and with a rising pay for their work. Making of living is better now.
The author closes the article:
This is the end of the article – wishing [other] Jewish cities to learn from Brisk and from each other charity and beneficial takanot.
