Kabbalist Rabbi Amos Guetta Stabbed to Death in Netanya, Community Mourns

The Jewish world was shaken on Wednesday morning by the brutal stabbing and murder of the renowned kabbalist Rabbi Amos Guetta in his study hall in Netanya. Rabbi Guetta, a spiritual leader and teacher for decades, was fatally stabbed while preparing for prayer at his synagogue on Shimon Bar Yochai Street. Emergency services rushed him to Laniado Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The police quickly apprehended the suspect after a manhunt lasting about two hours.

Rabbi Kalman Meir Bar, the Chief Rabbi of Israel and President of the Chief Rabbinate Council, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, calling Rabbi Guetta a unique exemplary figure in Netanya who served as a spiritual beacon for thousands. He praised Rabbi Guetta’s profound knowledge of both revealed and hidden Torah, his acts of kindness, and his dedication to God’s service. Rabbi Bar prayed for comfort for the family and students and for peace in the land.

The Shas political movement also issued a statement mourning Rabbi Guetta, describing him as a holy and righteous kabbalist who spent decades teaching Torah and bringing Jews closer to their faith, especially in Netanya and among Libyan Jewry. They noted his ascetic lifestyle, deep Torah scholarship, and his welcoming nature to all visitors. Shas extended condolences to his family, students, and followers.

Netanya Mayor Avi Salama lamented the loss of a great Torah scholar and pillar of kindness who illuminated the lives of tens of thousands of residents and was a source of advice, blessing, and salvation for families locally and worldwide.

Born in Libya in 1951, Rabbi Guetta immigrated to Israel with his family and settled in Netanya. Initially working as a postal worker and studying medicine for four years, he ultimately devoted himself entirely to Torah study and spiritual leadership. His study hall, "Tel Talpiot," became a renowned center attracting visitors from across Israel and the world, with many reporting miracles after receiving his blessings.