Thousands Attend Memorial Service for Rabbi Chaim Pinto in Ashdod

Hundreds of people gathered at the "Yismah Moshe" central synagogue in Ashdod for a memorial service, known as a "Hilula," honoring the late Rabbi Chaim Pinto the Second. The event included a Friday evening prayer service followed by a communal meal led by Rabbi Chaim Shimon Pinto, the city's chief rabbi. The meal was elaborately prepared, with a dedicated team working for many hours to serve fine foods. The synagogue hall quickly filled, with many attendees accompanying Rabbi Chaim Shimon Pinto to the head table. Seated with him were Ovadia Dahan, Chairman of the Religious Council, Rabbi Shmuel Ohana, his son-in-law and a representative of the "Shuva Israel" yeshiva, and Rabbi Avraham Boganim, who heads the kashrut department.

During the meal, Rabbi Ovadia Dahan addressed the crowd, praising Rabbi Chaim Shimon Pinto's efforts in strengthening religious observance, particularly in kashrut, and expanding religious boundaries in the city. He also spoke about the greatness of the late Rabbi Ovadia Yosef and the state of Judaism in Israel and the Torah world. Dahan urged attendees to adhere to scholars and continue the legacy of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, emphasizing the importance of voting for the Shas party in the upcoming election to preserve Jewish tradition and values in Israel.

Rabbi Chaim Shimon Pinto then spoke, thanking Rabbi Dahan and stressing the importance of obeying the words of the wise. He referenced the biblical story of Abraham's binding of Isaac, explaining that Abraham's elevated spiritual status stemmed from his struggle to overcome his past, symbolized by burying his father Terah, who worshipped idols. He encouraged the audience to confront and overcome their own negative inclinations, referred to as 'Terah,' to achieve spiritual growth.

The rabbi also recounted anecdotes about the life and character of Rabbi Chaim Pinto the Second, highlighting his dedication to the community, particularly the poor, and his immense charity. He described how Rabbi Pinto would travel long distances to ensure the poor received Passover provisions and supported the needy in Mogador throughout his life. One story told of Rabbi Pinto sitting with the poor on the ground, prompting city dignitaries to address their plight. Rabbi Pinto also pressured wealthy individuals to donate generously, explaining that their wealth was a trust from God, meant to be shared with the less fortunate to increase merit for the afterlife.

Following the service, attendees gathered after the Saturday night prayer to greet and receive blessings from Rabbi Chaim Shimon Pinto on the occasion of the memorial day.