Disciples Mourn Rabbi David Badri, Revered Kabbalist and Scholar
Disciples of Rabbi David Badri, the late head of the "HaShalom" Kabbalistic yeshiva in Jerusalem, are mourning his passing, remembering him for his humility, devotion to Torah study and prayer, and deep care for his students.
For decades, Rabbi Badri was a central figure in Kabbalistic circles. One student, who was with the rabbi for 35 years, described how Badri's humility was so profound that he would personally wake students for morning prayers. Another disciple highlighted the rabbi's extraordinary dedication to Torah, noting that Badri slept little, often studying immediately after waking in the yeshiva, with his primary goal being to unite the Jewish people and help individuals.
An old acquaintance eulogized him as a "very great Kabbalist, a giant man" who performed many "rectifications." He emphasized that in the current generation, there is no other Kabbalist like him, stating that words cannot fully capture his significance. The acquaintance recalled praying alongside Rabbi Badri for many years, noting the uniqueness of his prayers.
Further accounts emphasized Rabbi Badri's humility, with one student recalling seeing him pick up papers from the floor. This student expressed hope that the rabbi would pray in heaven for the Jewish people and their complete redemption, just as he did during his life, citing his many merits and the merit of the holy Torah to protect him.
Another student shared a personal connection, recalling Rabbi Badri's presence at his Bar Mitzvah and his significant contributions to strengthening Torah observance, the Jewish people, and yeshivas. He noted that Rabbi Badri taught thousands at the yeshiva, bringing many back to religious observance.