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National Institutefor Red Heifer Research
The Institute's team and halachic authorities inspecting a red heifer

Who We Are

The National Institute for Red Heifer Research was founded by researchers, Torah scholars, farmers and professionals who share the belief that the time has come to advance the mitzvah of the Red Heifer in practice. The team combines deep Torah knowledge with hands-on experience in cattle breeding, veterinary care and national project management.

The Team

Meet the people behind the project – halacha, farming, research and management.

Rabbi Azarya Ariel

Rabbi Azarya Ariel

Head of the Beit Midrash

Son of Rabbi Yisrael Ariel, head of the Temple Institute. Has led the halachic side of the Red Heifer mitzvah for the past decade and a half. Serves as head of the Beit Midrash of the National Institute for Red Heifer Research.

Chanan Kopiatsky

Founder & Executive Director

Has led the practical side of renewing the Red Heifer mitzvah over the past decade. Was a central figure in bringing the five red heifers to ancient Shiloh. Founded the Institute and serves as director of the association.

Shai Givon

Shai Givon

Institute Farmer

A farmer specializing in raising Red Angus cattle. Raised two red heifers on his own farm and services Red Angus farms across the country. Serves as the Institute's farmer.

Menachem Weber

Menachem Weber

Spokesman & Beit Midrash Director

A man of many talents, an expert in computing and brain science, and coach of the Israel debate team. Serves as spokesman of the Institute and director of its Beit Midrash.

Yehuda Ben-Zvi

Yehuda Ben-Zvi

Institute Project Manager

Training coordinator at the Midrasha for Temple Knowledge, the leading body advancing Temple awareness in Israel. Serves as project manager of the Institute.

Phone: 054-395-2670