Reflections on the Life of Rabbi Yaakov Edelstein: A Legacy of Compassion

Today marks the 8th anniversary of Rabbi Yaakov Edelstein's passing, who was the beloved Rabbi of Ramat Hasharon for close to 70 years and a prominent judge in Rabbi Nissim Karelitz's rabbinical court in Bnei Brak. Rabbi Yitzchak Zemel, a close confidant of Rabbi Edelstein, shares touching stories about his esteemed teacher. We've gathered some for you.

Watch a moving documentary from the Hidabroot channel that captures more than a thousand words about Rabbi Yaakov Edelstein, z"l. View it below:

1. A True Love for Every Jew

“I had the privilege to witness firsthand Rabbi Edelstein's genuine love for every Jew. His personal connection and sincere concern for each individual were evident in his prayers, advice, and heartfelt blessings, which he bestowed from the depths of his soul—the heart of the Jewish people.

“When people sought guidance on how to strengthen themselves, Rabbi Edelstein often pinpointed exactly the areas they truly needed to work on, leaving them astonished by his insight.”

2. The First Words After Two Months of Silence

“Let me recount a remarkable instance that left both me and the doctors in his room in awe. About a year ago, following a surgery that took away his ability to speak, Rabbi Edelstein could only communicate by writing. Adjusting without difficulty, he penned his requests and needs on notes.

“About two months later, during his recovery, the doctors decided to try a special prosthetic device implanted during surgery to see if he could speak again. The head of the department and senior doctors gathered as we speculated about his first words after two months without speech, expecting him to thank the doctors.

“The excitement in the room was palpable. As Rabbi Edelstein placed his hand on the prosthetic, he began to speak in an emotional voice: ‘I thank You, living and eternal King, for mercifully restoring my soul.’ It was a profound moment of sanctification, where, after months of silence, his first concern was to thank his Creator.”

3. Angels in Every Uniform

“Rabbi Edelstein’s attitude toward the doctors and nurses is a model of gratitude and respect,” says Rabbi Zemel, recalling a time after one of his surgeries in the intensive care unit. Despite his weakness, Rabbi Edelstein wrote, ‘Thank you to all the medical staff and nurses; you were like angels in every uniform.’

“Aware that some nurses and doctors spoke English and Russian, he wrote this message in all three languages and asked me to show it to the staff, emphasizing his appreciation for their dedication. The staff was moved to tears, amazed by his gratitude despite his condition.”

4. "I Am in a Magical Garden of Eden in Tel HaShomer"

“Reflecting on his difficult surgery, Rabbi Edelstein expressed gratitude for the gift of speech fasting, saying he was in a ‘magical Garden of Eden in Tel HaShomer,’ pointing out how his trials were an opportunity for growth and elevation.

“When asked about this ‘Garden of Eden,’ he responded, ‘In the Garden, there won’t be hospitals like Tel HaShomer, but in Tel HaShomer, there exists a Garden, a Garden where people transform obstacles into pathways to the real Eden.’” Consistently poignant words.

5. "Respect for Doctors Is Essential"

“I could recount countless stories of his unique respect for others,” says Rabbi Zemel. “Towards the end of his life, when he was very weak, a junior doctor came to treat him, but there were several preparations needed beforehand. After these were completed, Rabbi Edelstein signaled to me to call the doctor.

“He stopped me and wrote, ‘You don’t tell the doctor what to do. You should respectfully mention that the preparations are done, and he’ll understand what needs to be done.’ I showed this note to the doctors, who were struck by his attention to even the smallest details, ensuring respect and dignity for everyone involved.”

6. During His Wife's Illness, He Refused His Own Bed

A remarkable story illustrating his empathy: during the final illness of his first wife, he remained alone at home. Family members offered to have grandchildren stay with him for assistance, but he refused.

“Only later did we learn that during her suffering in the hospital, he slept on a mattress on the floor at home instead of his bed, empathizing with her pain and avoiding family worry.”

7. "Choose the Name Your Wife Prefers"

“When our son was born, my wife and I were unsure about what to name him. My wife had a name she preferred, and we asked the Rabbi’s opinion. When I presented the list of names, he immediately pointed to the one she liked, saying, ‘Your wife wants this name, so use it.’ His insight was astounding.

“In many instances, he advised people to follow their wife's desires, demonstrating his deep respect for her wishes, just as he exemplified unfailingly in his own life.”

8. Opening Sermons with "By His Word All Was Made"

“In good health, whenever speaking at events, he would request a drink beforehand and begin his speeches with the blessing ‘By His word all things came to be.’ This included the occasion, whether a match or a celebration.”

9. "I Am a Servant of the Holy Blessed One"

The vastness of Rabbi Edelstein’s humility was evident as he lived continually as a servant before the Creator, always considering his role as a devoted emissary. “When Rabbi Edelstein sang the song ‘I am a servant of the Holy One,’ it brought him to tears, embodying his life’s purpose—a servant with unwavering loyalty.”

Farewell to Rabbi Edelstein: "Your Warm Smile Lit Up the Whole World"

The Always Open Door: Stories of Rabbi Edelstein

Tears Flow Freely: Goodbye to Rabbi Edelstein