JERUSALEM Former Chief Sephardi Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu passed away on Monday, June 7, 2010, at Jerusalems Shaarei Tzedek hospital, after a prolonged hospitalization. He was 81 years old.
Eliyahu was born and raised in Jerusalem, and served as chief rabbi between the years 1983-1993. He was considered one of the spiritual leaders of religious Zionism, and remained an influential voice among the national religious after stepping down.
During Passover last year, Eliyahu underwent bypass surgery, following which he suffered a stroke. In August he was admitted to Shaarei Tzedek again, and remained hospitalized since.
Police expected tens of thousands at his funeral, which was scheduled for Monday night, June 7, in the capital. Eliyahu was to be laid to rest at the Har Menuchot cemetery.
The Binyamin Citizens Committee expressed their bitter grief over the death of Eliyahu. The rabbi was the pillar of fire leading the settlers of Judea and Samaria, encouraging them in their difficult times and acting to their benefit.
The Jewish Community of Hebron released a statement mourning the loss of Eliyahu, who was a true leader of the Jewish people in Eretz Yisrael and a staunch friend of Hebrons Jewish community.
The rabbi was always available to help and show support in every way possible, the statement continued.
His death is a tremendous loss to the Jewish people and will be especially felt by Hebrons Jewish residents, over the decades.
