Prominent Dushinsky Hasidic Scholar Dies at 37 After Long Illness

The Dushinsky Hasidic community is mourning the death of Rabbi Refael Binyamin Shisha, a respected scholar and teacher, who passed away in the United States at the age of 37. Rabbi Shisha had battled severe health issues since childhood, including a complex liver transplant at age 12, yet maintained a positive outlook and joy for life.

He was a beloved teacher of young children (Tashbar) and deeply devoted to his Rebbe, the Dushinsky Rebbe. Rabbi Shisha was a central figure in the Dushinsky community in Beit Shemesh, Israel, where he helped establish a local synagogue and was active in communal institutions. He had recently undergone further complex medical treatments in the U.S. for a recurring illness, including a second liver transplant.

Despite his prolonged suffering, Rabbi Shisha accepted his fate with grace and a smile. The Dushinsky Rebbe visited him multiple times in the hospital in New York, and all medical decisions were made in close consultation with the Rebbe. He was able to celebrate his eldest son's bar mitzvah in New York just months before his passing.

In recent weeks, Rabbi Shisha had shown signs of recovery and began rehabilitation. However, a virulent infection led to a rapid decline and organ failure, culminating in his death. He is survived by his mother, his wife, and five young children.

The funeral procession began in Williamsburg, New York, and will continue in Jerusalem on Tuesday, proceeding to burial on Har HaZeitim (the Mount of Olives).