Remembering Rabbi Naim Ben Eliyahu, A Pillar of Jerusalem's Bukharian Community

Rabbi Naim, known affectionately as 'Chacham Naim,' lived up to his name with a graceful and gentle demeanor. He was born into a family devoted to Torah and kindness. His father, the illustrious Kabbalist Chacham Salman Eliyahu, was renowned in Jerusalem, and his mother, Mazal, was related to the eminent Rabbi Yosef Chaim, author of the "Ben Ish Chai."

Born in the autumn of 1923 in the walled city of Jerusalem, Rabbi Naim began his studies at the 'Bnei Tzion' Talmud Torah and continued at the 'Porat Yosef' yeshiva in the Old City. Among his classmates were the future leaders Rabbi Ovadia Yosef and Rabbi Ben Zion Abba Shaul.

In 1940, at just 17, Rabbi Naim suffered the loss of his beloved father, Chacham Salman, leaving his mother and seven siblings in hardship. The family's home at the Porat Yosef yeshiva was taken, forcing them to move between apartments in the Beit Yisrael neighborhood outside the walls. Despite their tribulations, Rabbi Naim remained devoted to his Torah studies, supported by his uncle, Rabbi Yehuda Tzedakah, head of the yeshiva.

When moving from the Old City to Jerusalem, the family brought the handwritten manuscripts of Rabbi Salman's work, "Kerem Shlomo," which interprets Rabbi Chaim Vital's "Etz Chaim." Rav Mazal, Salman's widow, safeguarded these precious texts. When their financial situation worsened, they had to move again. Though the manuscripts were temporarily given away in hopes of financial aid, they were eventually returned, albeit missing half.

Later, encouraged by Rabbi Salman Mutzafi, Rabbi Naim published his father’s remaining manuscripts as "Kerem Shlomo," dedicating the work to his mother's sacrifices and faith.

After marrying Rachel, Rabbi Naim immersed himself in education, founding a school in the 'Katamonim' neighborhood. He also actively recruited students for Torah studies in the Bukharian Quarter. His efforts strengthened many families in their observance of Torah and mitzvot.

An Act of True Kindness

Rabbi Naim was deeply involved in charitable work. He established funds to aid grooms, orphans, widows, and those in need. He demonstrated his commitment to true acts of kindness by participating in the purification and burial of the deceased and guiding mourners through the Jewish laws of mourning. He even played a role in the burial of Rabbi Yaakov Ovadia, father of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef.

Recounting past experiences, Rabbi Naim described how his uncle, Rabbi Yehuda Tzedakah, inspired him to engage in these noble deeds. Rabbi Naim learned to swiftly arrange for the deceased's burial, respecting traditions and ensuring comfort for grieving families.

Champion of Peace

Rabbi Naim officiated numerous weddings and also helped resolve conflicts. One story tells of him personally paying a disputed sum to help reconcile a neighborly conflict.

In instances requiring divorce, he skillfully negotiated settlements, aiming to minimize the pain and hasten resolutions, valuing peace above all.

Rabbi Naim was an expert in kosher slaughtering, often sharing memorable blessings with Rabbi Yehuda Tzedakah, who once humorously insisted on partaking in a ritual blessing themselves.

In His Final Days

Rabbi Naim endured much after suffering a stroke, but remained mentally sharp until the end. His last days were devoted to prayer and teaching, surrounded by family and admirers.

Upon his passing, hundreds gathered to honor him, highlighting his towering influence in the Bukharian community. At his funeral, as per his request, "Shir HaShirim" was recited, accompanied by heartfelt melodies and traditional Jewish hymns.

Eulogies were delivered, reflecting his humility and kind nature. Rabbi Naim was laid to rest at the Har HaMenuchot cemetery, near Rabbi Yitzchak Kaduri, fulfilling his final wishes for a serene farewell imbued with the timeless chants of Jewish faith.

He leaves behind a legacy of devoted children and grandchildren, learned and righteous individuals recognized as blessings.