Torah Personalities
10 Timeless Quotes from Rabbi Aryeh Levin, the Tzaddik (Righteous Man) of Jerusalem
Decades Later, Reb Aryeh’s gentle words and boundless compassion continue to inspire generations
- Yonatan Halevi
- פורסם ז' ניסן התשפ"ד

#VALUE!
Rabbi Aryeh Levin (1885–1969), known simply and lovingly as “Reb Aryeh,” was one of Jerusalem’s most beloved figures in the 20th century. Nicknamed both the “Rabbi of the Prisoners” and the “Rabbi of the Lepers,” he became renowned for his quiet acts of kindness, like visiting Jewish political prisoners during the British Mandate, comforting patients with leprosy, and extending warmth to anyone in need.
With his humility, empathy, and profound inner piety, Rabbi Aryeh became a symbol of loving-kindness and spiritual sensitivity. His words, often recorded by those who met him or by admirers such as Simcha Raz in the book A Tzaddik in Our Time, offer timeless insight into the soul of a man who truly lived for others.
Here are 10 unforgettable quotes that capture his spirit:
1. “Sometimes…”
His humble answer when asked whether he was one of the hidden 36 righteous individuals in every generation.
2. “My wife’s foot is hurting us.”
He said this while accompanying his wife to the doctor, reflecting how deeply he felt her pain as his own.
3. “A true God-fearing person cannot sleep at night out of worry that he didn't ease the suffering of a fellow Jew that day.”
4. “One who chases honor is truly miserable. After all, what is honor? It’s simply begging others to value you. Is there any greater dependence than that?”
5. “It’s easier to uproot a mountain with the tip of a needle than to uproot arrogance from the human heart.”
6. “A life of idleness is a kind of early death.”
7. “Engrave this principle in your heart: Whenever you encounter hardship, it’s a sign that something good is in store. Only worthless things come easily…”
8. “Love of honor and inner peace cannot dwell under the same roof.”
9. “Dear Jew, when I look at you, all I see is your soul and it fills my heart with joy.”
Said to a secular Jew who felt uncomfortable speaking to him without a kippah.
10. “Hashem’s salvation can come in the blink of an eye.”
His words of encouragement to the underground fighters imprisoned by the British.
Rabbi Aryeh Levin didn’t need titles or platforms. His presence was his message. And his legacy, like his words, continues to uplift the heart of the Jewish people.