The Baba Chaki: The Hidden Tzaddik Who Led with Quiet Strength

A Life of Torah, Leadership, and Miracles

Today marks 51 years since the passing of the late Rabbi Yitzchak Abuchatzeira, widely known as the Baba Chaki (1895–1970). A brother of the Baba Sali and Rabbi David Abuchatzeira, he served as the chief rabbi of Ramle and Lod for two decades and was a beloved spiritual leader both in Morocco and Israel.

Born on the 23rd of Elul 1895 in the town of Rissani in Morocco’s Tafilalt region, he was the son of Rabbi Masoud Abuchatzeira and part of the renowned Abuchatzeira dynasty, known for its Torah scholarship, spiritual power, and acts of kindness. His life was shaped by hardship and leadership, devotion to the Jewish people, and an unwavering commitment to peace and faith.

From Morocco to Israel: A Path of Service

In 1920, during a time of severe persecution of Jews in Morocco, the Baba Chaki and his brother, the Baba Sali, relocated to the town of Boudenib after their eldest brother was murdered by the authorities. In 1936, Rabbi Yitzchak moved with his family to Arfoud, under French rule, where he became the spiritual leader of the Jewish community. Later, in 1945, he left Morocco for Oran, Algeria, which had become a haven for many Jews fleeing oppression in Tafilalt.

With the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, the Baba Chaki immigrated to the Jewish state with his family. They initially lived in the transit camp in Givat Olga. When Chief Rabbi Ben Zion Meir Hai Uziel learned of his arrival, he visited him personally and advocated for his appointment as Chief Rabbi of Ramle and Lod, an office he held with dignity for 20 years.

A Rabbi of Miracles, Compassion, and Quiet Leadership

Already in Morocco, the Baba Chaki had become known as a man of miracles, whose blessings brought healing, hope, and success. In Israel, his home remained open to all. He listened deeply to people's struggles, provided comfort and counsel, and gave blessings that people felt changed their lives.

He served as a member of the Chief Rabbinate Council and was appointed chairman of the "Organization of Sephardic Rabbis and Eastern Communities in the Land of Israel," founded by then-Sephardic Chief Rabbi Yitzchak Nissim.

His leadership was defined not by public display but by quiet humility, genuine empathy, and a steadfast commitment to Torah and to people.

A Tragic End and a Legacy That Lives On

On the 25th of Adar II 1970, Rabbi Yitzchak Abuchatzeira was tragically killed in a car accident at the Givati Junction in southern Israel. He had been returning from Netivot after reconciling a couple and visiting his brother, the Baba Sali. He was 75 years old.

His funeral drew a crowd of 20,000, including President Zalman Shazar, Chief Rabbis Yitzchak Nissim and Isser Yehuda Unterman, and many prominent public figures. The Baba Chaki was buried in Ramle, where he had served for so many years.

He left behind twelve children, six sons and six daughters, many of whom became rabbis, heads of yeshivot, and public leaders. His son Rabbi Avraham Abuchatzeira succeeded him as rabbi of Ramle, and after his passing, another son, Rabbi Yechiel Abuchatzeira, took on the role.

Today, over half a century later, the name Baba Chaki is still spoken with reverence. His legacy lives on in his descendants, his teachings, and the many lives he touched.