Baba Sali: Life, Miracles, and Legacy of a Beloved Moroccan Kabbalist

The Baba Sali was born on Rosh Hashanah in the year 5650 (1890) in the town of Tafilalt, Morocco. He immigrated to Israel in 1964, was a rabbi and kabbalist, and passed away on the 4th of Shevat, 5744 (1984).

Extraordinary Spiritual Protection in Childhood

From his earliest childhood, his parents guarded him with exceptional care, knowing he would one day become a great spiritual light for the Jewish people. His mother would place his cradle against the wall of the study hall so that the words of Torah would enter his ears even as an infant.

Purity and Modesty From a Young Age

From the age of six, his holy parents would cover his face with a scarf whenever he left the house, to ensure he would not, Heaven forbid, encounter improper sights that could compromise his spiritual purity.

Early Appointment as a Torah Leader

At just sixteen years old, he was appointed Rosh Metivta (head of the study division) of the “Abir Yaakov” Yeshiva. Three years later, after the passing of his great father, Rabbi Masoud, he was appointed head of the entire yeshiva.

A Major Halachic Authority in Morocco

He became a towering halachic decisor and the highest religious authority for all Moroccan Jews. He hid from the public the depth of his diligence in Torah study and his greatness and mastery in all dimensions of Torah, including its mystical teachings.

Daily Immersion and Exceptional Holiness

He lived with extraordinary holiness. Day after day, in both summer and winter, he immersed in the mikveh. At times, the water was freezing, requiring him to break through layers of ice — yet he never refrained from performing the ritual immersion. Each immersion was done with specific mystical intentions and kabbalistic meditations.

Fasts, Self-Discipline, and Minimal Sleep

He practiced many fasts and acts of spiritual discipline. Most hours of his day were dedicated to Torah study and receiving those who sought his blessing. He lived on only two to three hours of sleep each night.

“Baba Sali” — The Praying Father

The meaning of the name “Baba Sali” is “the praying father.”
Indeed, he served as the spiritual father of prayer for the Jewish people. Throughout his life, he devoted himself completely to the nation of Israel, feeling their pain as his own.

People from every background streamed to him by the thousands and tens of thousands. He greeted everyone with kindness and warmth, radiated love to each person, and poured out blessings and salvation from the depths of his heart. His blessings were known to bring results. He supported the poor and widows, arranged marriages for orphans, and served as a loving father figure to all.

Stories of Miracles and Divine Inspiration

Countless stories are told among Moroccan Jews about his prayers and the miracles that came from them. After he moved to Israel, his name spread among Ashkenazi Jews as well. Many — including great Torah scholars, traveled to him to absorb his teachings and receive his blessings. They too tell stories of wonders and spiritual insight.

His Final Words and Ongoing Legacy

Before his passing, his lips whispered parting words. Those close to him heard the sentence: “May my departure be an atonement for the suffering of the Jewish people.”

His holy resting place in Netivot has become a center of prayer for Jews worldwide. Each year, approximately a quarter of a million people visit his grave.