Beni Barbi Finds Peace and Purpose in Music and Family

Singer-songwriter Beni Barbi, 37, reflects on his unconventional childhood and journey to finding peace in a small Sharon settlement, far from his native Tiberias and the music industry's demands. He describes his parents, both exact science professionals, as his role models, noting their acceptance of his artistic path despite their different fields. Barbi recounts struggling with traditional schooling, often leaving institutions to pursue songwriting, a passion ignited by his father's involvement in cantorial singing and piyyutim (liturgical poems).

A pivotal moment in his youth involved questioning his faith, a struggle his rabbi supported with empathy, which Barbi credits with saving his spiritual path. Though he left formal religious studies, Barbi emphasizes his ongoing return to spiritual roots, influenced by Rabbi Kook's teachings on human nature and repentance. His daily spiritual routine includes prayers, phylacteries, and reading religious texts, and he observes Shabbat when visiting his parents, finding solace in the practice.

Barbi's professional path included military police service and studying at the Rimon School of Music. He views his music as a spiritual mission, aiming to bring healing and comfort, citing instances where his performances seemed to positively impact the critically ill. Despite his success, he remains grounded with the help of childhood friends from Tiberias, emphasizing the daily struggle for humility.

He has actively engaged with those affected by the recent conflict, performing for soldiers, the wounded, and evacuees, and particularly connecting with survivors of the Nova music festival. Barbi expresses concern over societal division and advocates for more measured discourse, using his music to foster unity. Looking ahead, he plans to explore acting and screenwriting and finish a book, but cherishes his family life above all, calling his wife, a gynecologist, the best choice he has ever made.