The Hidden Tzaddik of Kiryat Gat: Remembering Rabbi Nissim Moyal

A Life of Torah, Kabbalah, and Kindness

Tonight, the 6th day of the Jewish month of Shevat, marks the seventh yahrzeit (anniversary of passing) of Rabbi Nissim Moyal, the founder and head of Kerem Shlomo in Kiryat Gat.

Rabbi Moyal was born in 1935 in Ilir, Morocco, to Rabbi Shlomo and Rachel. He continued the spiritual legacy of his grandfather, the revered kabbalist Rabbi Masoud Moyal, who was murdered in Morocco in 1905. At just 23, Rabbi Moyal received rabbinic ordination and went to study Kabbalah under the great Moroccan sages of his generation. After marrying in 1958, he became a certified shochet (ritual slaughterer), and supported himself while also dedicating every spare moment to Torah learning.

Rabbi Nissim at age 23

A Man of Miracles and Deep Faith

Many remarkable stories are told about Rabbi Moyal, whom the late Rabbi Ovadia Yosef described as “the Baba Sali of our generation” and “Holy of Holies.” One powerful account comes from his son-in-law, Rabbi Berger, who once faced a terrifying medical crisis with his infant daughter. At just three months old, her condition deteriorated rapidly due to a doctor’s mistake. Hospital staff refused to explain her condition, and doctors gathered around her in silence, an ominous sign.

When Rabbi Berger approached one of the doctors in Yiddish, the professor simply said, “You’re a rabbi, pray.” Taking this as a serious warning, Rabbi Berger rushed to his father-in-law. Rabbi Moyal responded calmly: “Go back after Shabbat. The child will be fine. If you have faith in your heart, she will be healthy.”

He shared that during his prayers that night, he saw the Ben Ish Chai in a vision, kissed his hand, and received a promise of healing. By 8:00 a.m. the next day, the hospital staff reported an 80% improvement in the baby’s condition. By 3:00 p.m., she was discharged.

In another episode, Rabbi Moshe Barzilai, a close student, wept before Rabbi Moyal about his years of childlessness. Rabbi Moyal promised a multiplied blessing, and indeed, the couple had triplets. Later, Rabbi Barzilai asked for a blessing for long life. Rabbi Moyal told him, “As long as I live, you will live.” And so it was. Rabbi Barzilai passed away just one day after his beloved teacher.

The sacred resting place (Photo: Yoni Pasha)

Rabbi's institutions (Photo: Netanel Moyal)

A Community Pillar and Tireless Builder

Rabbi Moyal dedicated his days and nights to supporting Torah scholars, personally traveling across Israel to raise funds for his institutions. His flagship center includes a large, welcoming synagogue that functions as a spiritual lighthouse that extends far beyond the local religious neighborhood.

Today, his institutions house two kollelim (advanced study programs) with nearly 80 scholars, including well-known community rabbis and Torah giants. Several alumni have gone on to found additional Torah institutions throughout Kiryat Gat, expanding Rabbi Moyal’s vision. A learning center for those strengthening their Torah observance also operates on site.

The sound of Torah never stops at Kerem Shlomo, with study sessions held day and night, including evening study programs, Friday programs, Shabbat learning, community lectures, and even a women’s Torah class each week.

Rabbi Nissim Moyal’s legacy is one of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and boundless dedication to the Jewish people. Through his teachings, miracles, and institutions, his voice continues to inspire Jews long after his passing. 

(Photo: Netanel Moyal)