Rabbi Yom Tov Algazi

Rabbi Yom Tov Algazi was one of the leading students of the famous kabbalist Rabbi Shalom Sharabi - the Rashash.

Rabbi Yom Tov Algazi was a member of the group of kabbalists Ahavat Shalom and signed its charter in 1754, 1758, and 1759. He was a member of the Beit HaMidrash Neveh Shalom and Beit El.

Rabbi Shalom Sharabi succeeded Algazi's father as head of the kabbalists' yeshiva, but it was Yom Tov Algazi who actually led it. After Rabbi Sharabi's passing in 1782, he was elected rabbi and dayan, and in 1777 he became Rishon LeTzion.

His period of leadership was a difficult one for the Jews of Jerusalem, who were discontented with the authorities. Algazi's leadership, influence, and renown in the Diaspora helped the community.

From 1770 to 1775 he was sent, along with others, on missions from Jerusalem to Constantinople, Adrianople, and Belgrade. He traveled through Italy, France, Holland, Germany, and Poland, and returned to Jerusalem (1777) via Italy and Smyrna.

He appointed his son Yaakov as parnas of the Hebron community (1787). As the debts of the Hebron community grew, Algazi and his son went through a very difficult period (1793–1795). Both father and son were threatened with imprisonment. Creditors became aggressive, and Algazi's son was severely beaten.

In the month of Elul 1795, Algazi traveled to Constantinople and within three months raised a large sum of money for Hebron; he also conducted a major fundraising campaign in Smyrna and Salonika. However, before he returned to Jerusalem, his son died (1796) from the injuries he had sustained.

Rabbi Algazi authored several books on Jewish law. He was buried on Har HaZeitim (the Mount of Olives) near the grave of the Rashash.

May the merit of the Tzadik Rabbi Yom Tov Algazi protect us all!