Rabbi Shmaryahu Yosef Chaim Kanievsky, the leader of the ultra-Orthodox-Lithuanian public in recent years, passed away this afternoon (Friday) at the age of 94. Rabbi Kanievsky will be laid to rest on Sunday afternoon. The exact date has not yet been announced.
Rabbi Kanievsky is the son of the late Rabbi Yaakov Israel Kanievsky, the stapler, one of the greats of the previous generation and the son-in-law of the late Rabbi Yosef Shalom Elyashiv. He is considered one of the greats of the current generation and was known for his great scholarship. Rabbi Kanievsky has authored a number of books, the most prominent of which is the book “Through Faith”, which deals with the field of mitzvos that depend on the land. In recent decades, Rabbi Kanievsky has become a semi-mystical figure, and many have sought to develop his home in order to receive his blessings.
The Chief Rabbi of Israel, Rabbi David Lau, stated following the death of Rabbi Kanievsky, “Together with all the children of Israel in the land and in the Diaspora we are in painful and shocked tears with his departure to the exalted archives of the Rabbi of all the Diaspora.” “Israel has lost the great man of the generation, whose teachings, prayers and blessings have stood on the right of all Israel for decades.”
The chairman of the Religious Zionist Party, MK Bezalel Smutrich, said, , Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky ztl. Blessed be the truth. “
Interior Minister Eilat Shaked said, “I will mourn the passing of the Minister of Torah, Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky. The rabbi was a great scholar who wisely and humbly led his flock. Sends condolences to his family and his many disciples.