Remembering the Great Rabbi: The Life and Legacy of the Netziv of Volozhin

Rabbi Naftali Tzvi Yehuda Berlin, affectionately known as the "Netziv," was born in the town of Mir to his father, Reb Yaakov. He became a son-in-law to Rabbi Yitzchak of Volozhin, head of Volozhin Yeshiva, at a young age.

For years, the Netziv immersed himself in Torah study, with his brilliance remaining relatively unknown until a scholarly exchange with Rabbi David Luria revealed his Torah greatness to his father-in-law. This led to his involvement in teaching at Volozhin Yeshiva. After the passing of both his father-in-law and his esteemed brother-in-law, the Netziv became the head of Volozhin Yeshiva.

Under his leadership, Volozhin Yeshiva, the "mother of yeshivas," flourished and gained even more renown. The student body expanded fivefold during his tenure, growing from 100 to approximately 500 students.

In his later years, the Netziv expressed his desire to move to the Land of Israel. He wanted his son, Reb Chaim Berlin, to succeed him as head of the yeshiva. However, disagreements and opposition from some students concerning this appointment led to allegations of "mismanagement" against the yeshiva to authorities. The increasing governmental pressure to alter the yeshiva's curriculum ultimately resulted in its closure.

For the Netziv, the yeshiva was his life's work. His health deteriorated, preventing him from fulfilling his dream of relocating to the Land of Israel. Eventually, on 28 Av 5653, overwhelmed by heartbreak, he passed away, leaving his children and students heartbroken.

The Netziv of Volozhin authored several seminal works still studied today, such as his commentary on the Torah "Haamek Davar," and his commentary on the Sheiltos of Rav Achai Gaon, "Haamek She'elah," among others.