WATCH: Rabbi Meir Mazuz, leading Sephardi Rosh Yeshiva, is laid to rest in Bnei Brak

Late last night, the Bnei Brak community was enveloped in grief as the bier of Rabbi Meir Mazuz, the revered Rosh Yeshiva of Kisei Rachamim, was brought to the yeshiva hall on Uziel Street. The sounds of weeping filled the air as students and admirers gathered to honor their teacher, who passed away on Motzei Shabbat.

Inside the yeshiva’s beit midrash, the curtain of the holy ark was removed as a sign of mourning. Hundreds of students lit candles in memory of Rabbi Mazuz, wept openly, and performed the traditional tearing of garments. Among those present was Rabbi Yigal Cohen, a prominent student known for his outreach work.

The funeral procession is starting at 1:00 PM today, moving from the yeshiva to the Ponevezh Cemetery. Per Rabbi Mazuz’s wishes, no eulogies will be delivered, though leading rabbis offered words of inspiration and strength.

The Neveh Zion Badatz declared a citywide suspension of work in Bnei Brak during the funeral. United Hatzalah mobilized medical teams to ensure the safety of the expected tens of thousands of attendees. Efi Feldman, head of United Hatzalah’s Bnei Brak branch, expressed the community’s shared sorrow, noting Rabbi Mazuz’s support for their work.

Traffic and Safety Measures

Starting at 10:00 AM, several Bnei Brak streets were closed, including Rabbi Akiva, Aharonovich, Ezra, Nehemiah, Hazon Ish, and parts of Jerusalem Boulevard in Ramat Gan. Additional traffic arrangements affect nearby streets like Ben David and Kahaneman. Police urged the public to use public transportation, avoid parking in restricted areas (with towing enforced), and refrain from bringing children due to expected crowding. Climbing fences, buildings, or vehicles is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.

The loss of Rabbi Mazuz resonated deeply. A newborn was named Meir Nissim in his honor, and singer Elchanan Mishmarti shared a heartfelt tribute, lamenting, “How painful.” Rabbi Mazuz’s legacy also includes brave (albeit controversial) statements, such as his call to “conquer Gaza,” as recalled by a Kikar HaShabbat historian.

As Bnei Brak bids farewell to a towering figure, his teachings and influence continue to inspire.