Prominent Kabbalist Rabbi David Batsri Dies on Eve of Sukkot

Rabbi David Shalom Batsri, a leading Kabbalist and head of the 'HaShalom' yeshiva in Jerusalem, passed away on Friday, the eve of the Sukkot holiday, at the age of 85. Rabbi Batsri, known for his scholarship and his role in the Kabbalistic community, collapsed suddenly at his home in Bnei Brak. Emergency medical services attempted resuscitation efforts before he was transported in critical condition to Tel Hashomer Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

A poignant detail emerged following his passing: Rabbi Batsri's wife, Rabbanit Tzipora Batsri, also died on the eve of a holiday, specifically the eve of Passover in 2020. This parallel has been noted by many, with close associates suggesting the couple, who lived modestly, may have intentionally passed on holiday eves to avoid lengthy public mourning periods.

Leaders from the religious and Sephardic communities mourned Rabbi Batsri's death. The former Sephardic Chief Rabbi, Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef, spoke of his father's, Rabbi Ovadia Yosef's, close relationship with the deceased. The Shas party issued a statement eulogizing Rabbi Batsri as a "great Kabbalist, holy and righteous," highlighting his dedication to Torah study, his prayers for the Jewish people, and his strong stance against those who sought to weaken Torah learning.

Rabbi Batsri was born in Jerusalem in 1941 and hailed from a distinguished lineage of Babylonian sages. He is survived by his son, Rabbi Yitzhak Batsri, who is continuing his father's work.