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Born: 1820 in Nesvizh, Minsk Governorate, Russian Empire
Died: 1 May 1892 in Brest-Litovsk, Grodno Governorate, Russian Empire
Children: Chaim Soloveitchik
Rabbi Yosef Dov Soloveitchik, often known by the name Beis Halevi, was a prominent figure among Talmudic scholars. Born in 1820 in Nesvizh, Russia, he hailed from the lineage of Chaim Volozhin, a respected figure in Jewish scholarship.
Rabbi Yosef Dov Soloveitchik was born to Rivka, who was a granddaughter of Chaim Volozhin. His father, Yitschok Ze’ev, came from the lineage of Simcha Rappaport.
During his youth, Rabbi Soloveitchik resided in Brod, where he displayed exceptional proficiency in rabbinic studies.
Rabbi Soloveitchik’s intellectual brilliance earned him recognition as one of the foremost minds of his era. In 1854, he was considered a candidate for the position of rosh yeshiva at the Volozhin yeshiva, alongside Naftali Zvi Yehuda Berlin. Although he shared leadership of the yeshiva with the Netziv for a time, Berlin ultimately assumed the role.
In 1865, Rabbi Soloveitchik became the rabbi of Slutsk. During his tenure, he displayed deep compassion for the local community, especially the impoverished children in cheder classes. He took it upon himself to provide lunches for these children, financed by the community. His altruistic nature and ability to anticipate the needs of others were highly regarded.
Rabbi Yosef Dov Soloveitchik (Beis Halevi) left a lasting legacy in the world of Jewish scholarship and rabbinic leadership, known not only for his intellect but also for his compassion and commitment to his community.
Rabbi David Sutton is a prominent rabbinic leader within the Syrian community of Flatbush. His journey as a respected figure in the world of rabbinical leadership has been marked by a diverse and enriching educational background. Rabbi Sutton’s dedication to pastoral counseling is underscored by his training at Harvard University’s McLean Hospital, where he honed his skills in providing compassionate guidance and support to those in need.
At the core of Rabbi Sutton’s spiritual development are the profound influences of revered mentors. He received invaluable insights into hashkafah (Jewish outlook) and mussar (ethical teachings) from none other than the esteemed mashgiach, Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe, during his time at Yeshivat Be’er Yaacov. Rabbi Sutton’s commitment to a deep understanding of halachah (Jewish law) was nurtured under the tutelage of the distinguished Sephardic leader and Rosh Yeshiva, Hacham Ben Sion Abba Shaul.
Rabbi Sutton’s educational endeavors extend beyond his personal growth. He played a pivotal role as the educational coordinator for both the Boys Elementary and High School divisions at Yeshiva Shaare Torah. Here, his expertise in curriculum development and advancement shone through, contributing to the educational enrichment of countless students.
In addition to his educational contributions, Rabbi Sutton is also a prolific author. He is the writer of a compelling commentary on Beis HaLevi on Bitachon, which has garnered attention and admiration within the community. This commentary not only provides valuable insights into the text but also sheds light on the intriguing history of the Beis HaLevi manuscript, which remained tucked away in a suitcase for a century.
Rabbi David Sutton, based at the Yad Yosef Torah Center in Brooklyn, offers a unique perspective on bitachon (trust and faith in God). His teachings resonate with the wisdom passed down by his great rabbis, and he is committed to clarifying the essence of bitachon, what it encompasses, and what it does not.
Through his multifaceted roles as a rabbi, counselor, author, and educator, Rabbi David Sutton continues to be a source of inspiration and guidance to the Syrian community of Flatbush and beyond.
Leilui nishmat, for the elevation of the neshamot of:
Gladys Szerer a”h
Victor Sasson a”h
Alberto y Sara Bassan a”h
Isaac Btesh a”h
Jacob and Helena Blumenfrucht a”h
Eli and Frieda Stern a”h
Bina Blumenfruch a”h
Mauricio Szerer
Irene Btesh
Nyjama Sasson
Marvin Blumenfrucht
Lilian and Nessim Bassan
Jerry and Ahuva Jacobs
