Renowned Rabbi Chaim Harari, 82, Dies in Bnei Brak

The city of Bnei Brak is in mourning following the passing of Rabbi Chaim Harari, a prominent Torah scholar and leader, at the age of 82. Rabbi Harari, who served as the rabbi of the "Ateret Moshe" Beit Midrash and head of its kollels, died on Friday, the eve of Shabbat Kodesh Parshat Ki Tavo.

Born in Argentina, Rabbi Harari immigrated to Israel and studied at the "Porat Yosef" Yeshiva in Jerusalem under the tutelage of Rabbi Shimon Badaani and Rabbi Shalom Cohen. Early in his rabbinical career, he was sent by Rabbi Badaani on a mission to Mexico to foster spiritual growth, returning to Israel after a year and a half to raise his children.

He later served as a "Rebbe" (lecturer) at several yeshivas, including "Magen HaYeled," "Tiferet Moshe," and "Dromah," where he was highly regarded by his students. For many years, he led prayers with great devotion during the High Holidays at his Beit Midrash.

Rabbi Harari was a close associate of Rabbi Elazar Shach, a leading figure in the Haredi world, who endorsed his published works. Approximately 40 years ago, he co-founded "Avat," a national organization for Sephardic Torah scholars. He also established the "Ateret Moshe" kollel, which grew to encompass multiple branches.

Throughout his life, Rabbi Harari authored numerous books on Talmud, Halakha (Jewish law), and Aggadah (homiletic teachings). His health declined about six weeks prior to his death.

The funeral procession departed from his Beit Midrash on Malachi Street in Bnei Brak and proceeded to the Ponivez cemetery for burial. Eulogies were delivered by Rabbi Masoud Ben Shimon, Rabbi Nissim Ben Shimon, his long-time study partner Rabbi Yitzchak Avitbol, his sons-in-law, and his sons. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.