Rabbi Eliyahu Friedman, Head of Yeshiva 'Be'er HaChaim', Dies at 64

Rabbi Eliyahu Friedman, the Rosh Yeshiva (head of the yeshiva) of 'Be'er HaChaim' in Modi'in Illit, passed away at the age of 64 after a prolonged illness. He died at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital in Jerusalem.

Born in 1962, Rabbi Friedman was the son of Rabbi Berel Friedman, a prominent ritual slaughterer, and the grandson of Rabbi Yisrael Dworkin. He studied at prominent yeshivas, including Ponevezh and Brisk, where he was a devoted student of Rabbi A.Y. Soloveitchik.

After marrying the daughter of Rabbi Alexander Dinkel, a leader of the 'Kol Torah' yeshiva, Rabbi Friedman settled in Jerusalem and became known as a leading scholar. He was noted for his diligence, piety, and strict adherence to Halakha (Jewish law).

Twenty years prior to his death, Rabbi Friedman was widowed, leaving behind 12 orphaned children. He demonstrated immense faith and dedication during this period, focusing on his Torah teachings and raising his children. He later remarried, and had two daughters with his second wife.

Rabbi Friedman served as a lecturer at the 'Mayan HaTalmud' yeshiva before being appointed Rosh Yeshiva of 'Be'er HaChaim' in Modi'in Illit. He was deeply devoted to his students, who remained attached to him long after leaving the yeshiva.

Despite his illness, Rabbi Friedman recently left the hospital to deliver the opening lecture of the Elul study period at his yeshiva and to lead the students in prayer for Yom Kippur Katan. He was readmitted to the hospital shortly thereafter and passed away early Sunday morning, with his family by his side. He is survived by two young daughters.