Rabbi Yaakov Rozha Launches Monumental Book on Jewish Burial Practices in Tel Aviv
An emotional and prestigious event took place on Wednesday evening at the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation in Tel Aviv to mark the launch of Rabbi Yaakov Rozha's new comprehensive book, "Paths of Kindness and Truth." Rabbi Rozha serves as the head of the Chevra Kadisha in Tel Aviv-Jaffa, a member of the Chief Rabbinate Council of Israel, chairman of the Honor for the Dead Committee, and the city rabbi of Bat Yam. He is also a former head of the Aderet Yeshiva and the National Institute of Forensic Medicine.
Hundreds of guests attended, including representatives from Chevra Kadisha organizations nationwide, IDF burial units, city rabbis, judges, public figures, academics, ZAKA leaders, and prominent figures in Jewish law and burial. The event featured musical performances by cantor Avremi Roth and a rich reception. Key speakers included Eldad Mizrahi, chairman of Chevra Kadisha; former Chief Rabbi Yonah Metzger; current Chief Rabbi Kalman Bar; Tel Aviv-Jaffa Rabbi Zvadia Cohen; and other religious and public leaders.
Speakers praised Rabbi Rozha's decades-long dedication to the field of honoring the dead, highlighting his extensive halachic knowledge and practical experience, especially in military contexts. The new book consolidates his teachings and expertise, expected to become an essential resource for burial professionals and rabbis in Israel and worldwide. The Ministry of Religious Services announced it would purchase 1,500 copies for distribution to Chevra Kadisha members across the country.
Rabbi Rozha was honored with a "Shield of Honor" award from Chevra Kadisha and a special certificate from Ariel University, where he lectures in the "Heritage of Benjamin" program training burial workers. The event underscored his unique contribution to integrating halacha, professionalism, and practical experience in burial and military casualty care. Former IDF Chief Rabbi Israel Weiss recalled working with Rabbi Rozha on complex cases involving fallen soldiers, including those declared missing in action.
The evening concluded with the distribution of the new book to attendees, who left with deep respect for Rabbi Rozha's lifelong work and legacy in the sacred field of honoring the deceased.
