Renowned Kabbalist Rabbi David Batsri, 85, Passes Away

The world of Torah and Kabbalah is mourning the passing of Rabbi David Batsri, a leading Kabbalist and head of the "HaShalom" yeshiva, who died Friday at the age of 85. Rabbi Batsri, known as the "elder of the Kabbalists," dedicated his life to Torah study, prayer, and the dissemination of Jewish mystical teachings.

Rabbi Batsri collapsed at his home in Bnei Brak and was rushed to the hospital after resuscitation efforts. Despite intensive medical care, his condition deteriorated, and he was pronounced dead. He was born in Jerusalem and studied at the "Porat Yosef" yeshiva, later becoming a disciple of his uncle, Rabbi Salman Mutzafi, in Kabbalah.

He founded the "HaShalom" yeshiva in Jerusalem, which became a global center for studying the teachings of Rabbi Shalom Sharabi and Jewish mysticism. Rabbi Batsri was particularly known for his lengthy Kabbalistic prayer services and his deep intentions. He also authored and published significant Kabbalistic works, bridging Babylonian and Jerusalem traditions with the wider Israeli public.

Prominent figures, including Israel's Chief Rabbi David Yosef, Shas party chairman Aryeh Deri, MK Avi Maoz, and MK Itamar Ben-Gvir, eulogized Rabbi Batsri, remembering him as a "holy and pure man," a "great disseminator of Torah and Kabbalah," and a devoted servant of God who supported his community and political movements.