Rabbi Alexander Zusskind of Grodno - the "Yesod Ve-Shoresh Ha-Avodah".

Rabbi Alexander Zusskind of Grodno, known as the Muharaz (died 18 Adar 1794), was an 18th-century Lithuanian rabbi and kabbalist. He became renowned as one of the greatest rabbis of his generation and as a unique tzadik in his own right, and after his book he became known as the "Baal Yesod Ve-Shoresh Ha-Avodah." This book contains guidance on the proper use and understanding of the rituals, the daily Jewish prayers, the prayers of Shabbat and the Jewish festivals; as well as various articles on Rashi's commentary to Nevi'im and Ketuvim, and articles about the Holy Land and the Temple in Jerusalem. The Chofetz Chaim regularly set aside time to study this work. He also left his sons an ethical will containing instructions regarding the service of G-d. This work was published in Grodno in 1794. His Final Wishes He died in 1794, and in his will he asked to be buried in a tallit with a complete set of tzitzit, contrary to the prevailing custom of pulling out one of the tzitzit to indicate that the deceased is no longer obligated in the mitzvot. After his death, this matter was brought before the Rabbi of Grodno, Rabbi Daniel, author of "Chamudei Daniel", who responded that in other cases he would not have permitted such a departure from custom, but in this instance he was afraid to go against the wishes expressed in the will. Legend has it that as Alexander Zusskind's body was being lowered into the grave, one of the tzitzit accidentally tore off (cf. "Aliyot Eliyahu" by Hillel Rivlin/Heshel Reines, note 119, which reports that a similar incident occurred at the funeral of the Vilna Gaon). He also asked that no eulogies be given for him. In accordance with his will, two tombstones were placed for him - one at his head and one at his feet. He promised his community that he would be a "good advocate" for all who study his secrets, even if they do not take upon themselves anything of what he writes.