The Compassionate Legacy of Rabbi Gavriel Toledano

Rabbi Gavriel Toledano z"l, esteemed head of Yeshiva Or Baruch and a notable teacher of Torah in our generation, left this world five years ago, on the 16th of Cheshvan 5777. Discover the unique character as highlighted in Yated Ne'eman:

1. Rabbi Gavriel Toledano z"l was born in Meknes, Morocco, to Rabbi Shlomo Toledano and Rivka, the daughter of Rabbi Raphael Baruch Toledano, the city's Rabbi.

Following his bar mitzvah, his grandfather Rabbi Raphael Baruch sent him to study at the Chachmei Tsarfat Yeshiva led by Rabbi Chaim Yitzchak Chaikin in Aix-les-Bains. At 18, he moved to study at the Ponevezh Yeshiva, becoming close with its heads, Rabbi Dovid Povarsky, Rabbi Shmuel Rozovsky, and Rabbi Shach.

As a young student, deeply immersed in Torah studies, he longed to own a set of 'Mishneh Torah' by Rambam but lacked the funds. He reminisced about selling a special coat his mother sent for the cold winters in the Holy Land to purchase the sacred texts. He found a Rambam book with the same color as his mother's gift, which served as a reminder of her love and support.

2. In his last decade, Rabbi Gavriel suffered from Parkinson's disease. During this time, he attempted to deliver a class, "The Mishnah says, the partners who wished to share..." but his voice suddenly stopped, his body trembled, and he struggled to speak. He cried out loudly, "What is a human being, what is a human being..."

He withstood the challenge with his son by his side as they left the room. No eyes remained dry witnessing the painful struggle of a man who dedicated 75 years to the study and teaching of Torah.

Noticing his son's distressed expression, Rabbi Gavriel smiled warmly and said, "Do you think Hashem abandoned me? Until now, He let me serve as a yeshiva head for devoted students. Now, He wants me to lead by accepting my suffering with love, and I accept it gladly, thankful for every breath."

He continued, "If Hashem had given such trials to a young man, perhaps he wouldn't accept them with love. But I have lived many days and seen everything is from Heaven and for the good. I can indeed thank Hashem for everything, including these challenges."

3. The original wedding date of Rabbi Gavriel and his wife was set for Lag B'Omer. Rabbi Gavriel expressed concern about missing the beginning of the 'zman' (study season) at yeshiva and requested an earlier date. Indeed, their wedding was moved to Rosh Chodesh Nissan, showing his relentless dedication to Torah.

4. Rabbanit Toledano was known for her unwavering support during her husband's illness. Their son, Rabbi Yisrael Meir, asked how she managed such unparalleled devotion. She simply replied, "I know if the situation were reversed, he would do more for me. This strengthens me to support him without limits."

5. A student from Yeshiva Or Baruch shared his story of moving to Bnei Brak. Concerned about his future learning environment, Rabbi Toledano advised him and even ensured his financial needs were met when transferring to a different kollel.

The Rabbi promised, "Come to me at the end of the month, and I'll make up the difference," demonstrating his concern for his students' well-being.

6. Another story highlights Rabbi Toledano's care for a student preparing for Sukkot, offering immediate assistance when he could not afford a gift for his wife.

7. When a student couldn't attend the yeshiva's summer camp, the Rabbi personally covered the cost the following year, ensuring every student could join.

8. Rabbi Toledano gifted $500 to a student for his wedding. When learning further expenses required an additional 20,000 shekels, he generously provided it without hesitation.

9. He often helped students in challenging matchmaking situations, committing to significant financial aid to ensure success.

10. Great rabbis like Rabbi Elazar Menachem Shach z"l praised him as a trustworthy and devoted student, displaying greatness in Torah, humility, and righteousness.