Celebrating the Legacy: Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky's Journey
On this day 88 years ago, Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky was born.
Rabbi Shmaryahu Yosef Chaim Kanievsky was born on the 15th of Tevet, 5688 (1928), in Pinsk, Poland, to Rabbi Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky, known as the Steipler, author of 'Kehillot Yaakov,' and Miriam, sister of the Chazon Ish, Rabbi Avraham Yeshaya Karelitz.
At the age of six, he immigrated to Israel with his family, settling in Bnei Brak, a city known for its vibrant Torah community.
Rabbi Kanievsky studied together with Rabbi Chaim Greineman and Rabbi Nissim Karelitz at the Tiferet Zion Yeshiva in Bnei Brak under Rabbi Michel Yehuda Lefkowitz. He later moved to the Lomzha Yeshiva in Petah Tikva, where he formed a strong connection with Rabbi Shach, who was a lecturer there, and Rabbi Eliyahu Dushnitzer, the yeshiva's spiritual supervisor.
Deeply connected to his father, the Steipler, and his uncle, the Chazon Ish, Rabbi Kanievsky learned Torah and holy practices from them. He married Rebbetzin Batsheva, daughter of Rabbi Yosef Shalom Elyashiv. After his marriage, he studied at the Chazon Ish Kollel. From a young age, he served as a member of the Council of Torah Sages of the Ashkenazi community and is now one of the leaders of the Lithuanian Jewish community.
(Long life and years of happiness be added to you. Photo: Flash 90)When his father, the Steipler, passed away, Rabbi Shach eulogized him and said, "The Steipler left behind a son like him," and "there is someone to guide us in Halacha." On another occasion, Rabbi Shach described Rabbi Kanievsky as, "the greatest we have in Torah knowledge. A true Torah scholar who can be consulted on everything and commands respect for his wisdom and fear of Heaven."
Rabbi Kanievsky is renowned for his mastery and expertise of the entire Torah. Every year, on Erev Pesach, he completes the entirety of Torah study. Furthermore, he is the author of dozens of books addressing various holy subjects.
Rabbi Kanievsky is also known for his incredible kindness. He serves on the rabbinical committee of Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Center and the 'Kupat Ha'Ir' charity organization.
Let us bless Rabbi Kanievsky that Hashem grants him long days, a life filled with goodness, and years of tranquility. May long life, years of happiness, and peace be added to him.
