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{{Short description|4th Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Israel}} {{Short description|4th Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Israel}}
{{Expand Hebrew|topic=bio}}
{{about|the rabbi|the politician|Avraham Yosef Shapira|R' Avraham Shapiro, author of Devar Avraham|Avraham Duber Kahana Shapiro}} {{about|the rabbi|the politician|Avraham Yosef Shapira|R' Avraham Shapiro, author of Devar Avraham|Avraham Duber Kahana Shapiro}}

{{Infobox Jewish leader {{Infobox Jewish leader
| honorific-prefix = Rabbi | honorific-prefix = Rabbi
| name = Avraham Shapira<br/>{{Nobold|{{Script/Hebrew| אברהם אלקנה כהנא שפירא}}}} | name = Avraham Shapira<br>אברהם שפירא
| image = File:ישיבת מרכז הרב 2009 6 9 16 51 40 (cropped).jpg
| native_name =
| image = ישיבת מרכז הרב 2009 6 9 16 51 40 (cropped).jpg
| image_size = 200px | image_size = 200px
| caption = Rabbi Avraham Shapira | title = ] ]
| title = ]
| organisation = ]
| organisationposition = Chief Rabbi
| yeshiva = ]
| yeshivaposition = Rosh Yeshiva
| began = 1983 | began = 1983
| ended = 1993 | ended = 1993
| predecessor = ]
| successor = ]
| birth_date = c. 1910 | birth_date = c. 1910
| birth_place = ], ] | birth_place = ]
| death_date = {{death date and age|2007|09|27|1910|01|01}} | death_date = 27 September 2007
| death_place = ], ] | death_place = ]
| buried = ], ] | buried = ], ]
| nationality = Israeli | nationality = ]i
| denomination = ] (]) | denomination = ]
| parents = Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Kahana Shapira and Hanna Reizel Zaks
| spouse = Penina Shapira
| children = 4 (including Rabbi Yaakov Eliezer Kahana Shapira)
| dynasty = Shapira
| occupation = Rosh Yeshiva, Posek, Chief Rabbi
| alma_mater = ], ]
| notable_works = ''Shiurei Maran HaGra Shapira'', ''Minchat Avraham''
| known_for = Halachic rulings, Religious Zionist leadership, opposition to ]
| signature = <!-- Optional: link or file name for image -->
<!---------- Positions and Achievements ---------->
| positions =
* Head of ] ]
* Member and head of the ]
* Founder and President, Machon HaRav Tzvi Yehuda (Machon HaRatzia)
* President, ] network
* Founding President, Union of Rabbis for the Land of Israel
* Leader, Komemiyut Movement
<!---------- Rabbinic Roles ---------->
| rabbinic_roles =
* Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Israel (1983–1993)
* Rosh Yeshiva, ]
* Av Beit Din (head judge), Jerusalem Rabbinical Court
| predecessors = ] (Chief Rabbi)
| successors = ] (Chief Rabbi)
<!---------- Family Lineage ---------->
| family = Descendant of ]; great-grandson of Rabbi ]
| relations = Related to Rabbi ] (son)
| lineage = Priesthood (Kohen)
<!---------- Signature and Trivia ---------->
| denominational_affiliation = Hardal
| resting_place = ], ]
| notable_students =
* Rabbi ] – Rabbi of Hebron-Kiryat Arba
* Rabbi ] – Ram at Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav
* Rabbi ] – Rabbi of Jerusalem
| other_names = The Rav, Maran HaRav Shapira
}} }}


'''Avraham Shapira''' ({{langx|he|אברהם אלקנה כהנא שפירא}}; {{circa|1910}},<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.il/he/departments/general/rab_shapira|script-title=he: הרב אברהם אלקנה שפירא זצ"ל|language=he |publisher=] site|quote=נולד בכ"ג באייר תר"ע}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.haaretz.co.il/misc/2007-09-27/ty-article/0000017f-f951-d318-afff-fb732f6c0000 |script-title=he:נפטר הרב שהוביל את המאבק לשלמות הארץ|last=Shargai |first=Nadav |newspaper=הארץ |publisher=]|language=he | quote= נולד ב 1911}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.inn.co.il/news/561257|script-title=he:הכהן הגדול מאחיו|last=Yaakobi |first=Yoel |publisher=Arutz 7 |language=he |quote=נולד בירושלים בי"ד באייר תרע"א (1911), אם כי יש המאחרים את תאריך לידתו בשנתיים}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.inn.co.il/news/167047 |script-title=he:הגאון הרב אברהם שפירא הלך לעולמו |last=Selah |first=Kobi |publisher=Arutz 7 |language=he |quote=נולד בירושלים בכד אייר תרע"ד}}</ref> ] &ndash; 27 September 2007) was a prominent ] in the ] world. He served as the ] ] from 1983 to 1993. Shapira was the head of the ] of ], and both a member and the head of the Supreme Rabbinic Court. He was the ] of ] in Jerusalem, a position he held after Rabbi ] died in 1982. '''Avraham Shapira''' ({{langx|he|אברהם אלקנה כהנא שפירא}}; {{circa|1910}},<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.il/he/departments/general/rab_shapira|script-title=he: הרב אברהם אלקנה שפירא זצ"ל|language=he |publisher=] site|quote=נולד בכ"ג באייר תר"ע}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.haaretz.co.il/misc/2007-09-27/ty-article/0000017f-f951-d318-afff-fb732f6c0000 |script-title=he:נפטר הרב שהוביל את המאבק לשלמות הארץ|last=Shargai |first=Nadav |newspaper=הארץ |publisher=]|language=he | quote= נולד ב 1911}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.inn.co.il/news/561257|script-title=he:הכהן הגדול מאחיו|last=Yaakobi |first=Yoel |publisher=Arutz 7 |language=he |quote=נולד בירושלים בי"ד באייר תרע"א (1911), אם כי יש המאחרים את תאריך לידתו בשנתיים}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.inn.co.il/news/167047 |script-title=he:הגאון הרב אברהם שפירא הלך לעולמו |last=Selah |first=Kobi |publisher=Arutz 7 |language=he |quote=נולד בירושלים בכד אייר תרע"ד}}</ref> ] &ndash; 27 September 2007) was a prominent ] in the ] world. Shapira had been the head of the ] of ], and both a member and the head of the Supreme Rabbinic Court. He served as the ] ] from 1983 to 1993. Shapira was the ] of ] in Jerusalem, a position he held since Rabbi ] died in 1982.

He was the founder and president of the Machon HaRav Tzvi Yehuda (Machon HaRatzia), a member of the founding presidency of the Union of Rabbis for the Land of Israel, and president of the Tzvia Ulpana network (after the passing of Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda Kook) and Komemiyut movement.


==Biography== ==Biography==
Avraham Elkanah Shapira was born to a ]ite family; his father was Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Shapira. As a child, he lived in the ] of Jerusalem's Old City.<ref name="Sylvetsky">{{cite news |last1=Sylvetsky |first1=Rochel |title="There was only one Abraham" – a Tzaddik in our times |url=https://www.israelnationalnews.com/Articles/Article.aspx/21609 |accessdate=13 August 2018 |publisher=Arutz Sheva |date=26 January 2018}}</ref>
===Early Years===
Shapira was born in ] to Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Kahana Shapira and Hanna Reizel (née Zaks). He studied in the ] of ] in Jerusalem at the "Hurva" in the ], under Rabbi Chaim Man and Rabbi Leib Ruchman (father-in-law of Rabbi ]). Later, he studied at Yeshivat Tiferet Zvi under Rabbi Avraham Chaim Hacalmman, who encouraged him to publish his first work, "Darchei HaKinyanim," on the laws of acquisitions in ] at age twelve. He also studied with Rabbi Reuven Trop, to whom he became very close.<ref>http://bneiakiva.org.il/act/דמות-החודש-תשרי-הרב-אברהם-אלקנה-כהנא-ש/</ref> After ] relocated to Jerusalem following the ], he joined it and studied under the head of the yeshiva, Rabbi ], who greatly valued him.<ref>Rabbi Chaim Steiner, http://www.moreshet.co.il/web/alonparash/alon.asp?codeClient=1197</ref> He also studied under Rabbi ].<ref>The Pardes, Iyar 5743, p. 29</ref> He learned in a chavruta (learning partnership) with Rabbi Moshe Chevroni, who later became the head of the yeshiva.<ref>http://bneiakiva.org.il/act/דמות-החודש-תשרי-הרב-אברהם-אלקנה-כהנא-ש/</ref> Due to a lack of books, many relied on his ability to recite texts by heart.<ref>Testimony of Rabbi ] and Rabbi Yaakov Rosenthal</ref> According to Rabbi ] and Rabbi Yaakov Rosenthal, the heads of the yeshiva would say of him: {{Quote|content="Here grows the next Gadol HaDor (leading Torah scholar)."<ref>Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz, Be'er Avraham, Introduction, https://www.yeshiva.org.il/midrash/13391</ref>}}


In his youth, he studied at ] in Jerusalem, later moving to the ], where he studied under Rabbis ] and ]. After his marriage, Rabbi ] invited him to join ] yeshiva.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Shapira |first1=Yaakov |title=Remembering Rav Tzvi Yehuda Kook, (d. Purim, 1982) |url=https://www.israelnationalnews.com/Articles/Article.aspx/12939 |accessdate=13 August 2018 |publisher=Arutz Sheva |date=27 February 2013}}</ref> He corresponded, in his youth, with the ], Rabbi ], Rabbi ], and Rabbi ].
In his youth, he maintained contact with prominent rabbis such as Rabbi ]; the Rabbi of Tchebin, with whom he regularly consulted on various matters, and, according to Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz in his book "BeOhel Avraham," after the death of the ], Rabbi Kook said: {{Quote|content="I don’t know what they’ll say in Bnei Brak, but I say that Rabbi Avraham Shapira is the next Gadol HaDor."<ref>Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz, Derech Hatorah Haguelet, by Rabbi Yehuda Felix who heard from Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak Bromberg</ref>}} The Chazon Ish wrote to him: {{Quote|content="It is evident that his entire intent is to uncover the truth of the Torah."<ref>Chazon Ish, Choshen Mishpat Nezikin, Siman 15, Ot Dalet, s.v. Vehinei Dayan. Full correspondence in Responsa Minchat Avraham, Vol. 1</ref>}} Rabbi ] of ] had a son who recounted that his father would ask for Torah journals if they contained articles by Rabbi Shapira.<ref>Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz, Be'er Avraham, Introduction; Rabbi Avraham Israel Silvetsky, Memorial Book Eshel Avraham, article "Three Crowns"</ref>


In 1956, he was appointed as a member of the Jerusalem religious court by Chief Rabbi ]. In 1971, he was appointed ].
Rabbi ] wrote about him: {{Quote|content="The distinguished of Jerusalem’s scholars, fitting to teach in all Torah knowledge, and who am I compared to them."<ref>See Igrot Moshe, Even HaEzer 24</ref>}} Rabbi ] asked him to comment on his writings.<ref>Full correspondence in Responsa Minchat Avraham, Vol. 2</ref> Rabbi ] included exchanges with him in his book Even HaEzel.<ref>http://bneiakiva.org.il/act/דמות-החודש-תשרי-הרב-אברהם-אלקנה-כהנא-ש/</ref> Rabbi ] and Rabbi ] also engaged with him in halachic discussions on Rabbi Kook’s father’s responsa.<ref>The Shadchan</ref> Rabbi ] invited him, encouraged by the Chazon Ish, to teach at ] in ]. According to various testimonies, he was offered a position as either a ]<ref>Interview with his son, Rabbi Shmuel Shapira: IsraelNationalNews, Torah from the Father’s House, October 1, 2009</ref> or as a rosh yeshiva.<ref>Memorial Book Eshel Avraham, article Three Crowns</ref> However, he declined, explaining to his students: {{Quote|content="I follow the path of Maran Rabbi Kook of blessed memory."<ref>The Shadchan</ref>}} Additional reasons were his love for Jerusalem and his wish to support his widowed mother, who lived there.


Shapira was elected ] in 1983, serving alongside Rabbi ], who was elected Sefardi Chief Rabbi.<ref name="Sylvetsky"/>
In 1949 (Hebrew year 5709), he edited the book "Zechor Yitzchak" by Rabbi ] (Ponovezh), adding a "Final Appendix" with his own Torah insights on topics discussed in the book. Around this time, the ], Rabbi Zvi Pesach Frank, would often send halachic questions directed to him to Rabbi Shapira, asking him to respond on his behalf.<ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=GP0P5n494UQ&t=8s |title={759}הגאון הרב שלמה קורח זצ"ל רבה של במספר על מרן הגאון הרב שפירא אברהם זצ"ל ראש ישיבת מרכז הרב |date=2018-10-23 |last=הרב משה אלחרר |access-date=2024-11-08 |via=YouTube}}</ref>
] ] in the ]]]
] at ] celebration at Mercaz HaRav]]


He died on the first day of ], 2007.<ref name='jpost'>{{cite news |first= Mattew |last=Wagner |title=Rabbi Avraham Shapira dies at 94 |url=http://fr.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=JPost/JPArticle/ShowFull&cid=1189411500705 |publisher=Jerusalem Post |date=2007-09-28 |accessdate=2007-09-28 }}{{dead link|date=September 2016|bot=medic}}</ref><ref name='haaretz'>{{cite news |first=Nadav |last=Shragai |title=Former chief Ashkenazi rabbi Abraham Shapira dies at 96 |url=http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/907691.html |publisher=Haaretz |date=2007-09-28 |accessdate=2007-09-28 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20071011144255/http://haaretz.com/hasen/spages/907691.html| archive-date= 11 October 2007 | url-status= live}}</ref> Tens of thousands of people took part in his funeral procession on September 28, 2007.<ref>{{cite news|title=Former Chief Rabbi of Israel Dies|last=Copans|first=Laurie|url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/sns-ap-israel-obit-shapira,1,5692903.story|publisher=Chicago Tribune|date=2007-09-28|accessdate=2007-09-29}}{{dead link|date=January 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> he was interred at the ].
During his studies at the yeshiva, he studied in a chavruta with ], his cousin’s husband, who would later become the commander of the ]. While Raziel was on the run from the ], frequently changing hiding places, he would occasionally stay with the Shapira family. Rabbi Shapira would give up his bed for Raziel and stay awake studying through the night.<ref>IsraelNationalNews, Efrat Stern, "When the gates opened, a scent of holiness was present," June 1, 2016</ref>


Shapira and his wife Penina had four sons. As per his will, his son Rabbi ] was appointed Rosh Yeshiva of Mercaz HaRav after him.<ref>]</ref>
===At Mercaz HaRav Yeshiva===
====As a Rosh Metivta====
]
While they prayed together in the neighborhood of ], Rabbi ] met Rabbi Shapira and was impressed by his prayer. He began conversing with him on Torah matters and developed a deep respect for Rabbi Shapira.<ref>Gilui Da'at</ref> Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda arranged for Rabbi Shapira’s marriage to Penina, the sister of his brother-in-law, Rabbi Shalom Natan Ra’anan, Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook’s son-in-law. In 1945, he invited Rabbi Shapira to teach at ],<ref>Rabbi Eliezer Melamed, Ravivim, BeSheva, Cheshvan 5768</ref> which he accepted, and he continued to teach there for over sixty years.<ref>Rabbi Chaim Steiner</ref> There, he also studied in chavruta with ] on ].<ref>Yehuda Yifrah, https://mashabat.co.il/2017/10/08</ref> At the yeshiva, he became close to its head, Rabbi ], and was the only one teaching Talmud apart from him at that time.<ref>http://bneiakiva.org.il/act/דמות-החודש-תשרי-הרב-אברהם-אלקנה-כהנא-ש/</ref> As Rabbi Charlap’s health declined, he asked Rabbi Shapira to take over the shiur klali (general lecture), which Rabbi Shapira did and continued delivering regularly after Rabbi Charlap’s passing.<ref>Rabbi Avraham Israel Silvetsky, Eshel Avraham, article Three Crowns</ref>

====As Rosh Yeshiva under Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda Kook====
]
After Rabbi Charlap’s passing, Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda invited Rabbi Shapira to serve as ], subject to his guidance.<ref>Rabbi Yosef Badichi, Yosef Lekach, introduction; Rabbi Ben Zion Rosenthal, Ha’isha veChinucha, pp. 39, 49</ref> Rabbi Shapira was referred to as "Rosh Yeshiva," while Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda was called "Head of the Yeshiva."<ref>Rabbi Chaim Steiner, Gilui Da'at, 12 Tishrei 5783</ref> Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda saw him as the Rosh Yeshiva responsible for ] and ] instruction and his right hand in managing and leading the yeshiva.<ref>Rabbi Yaakov Ariel, introduction to Ha'ar Enenu BeToratcha by Amita'i Kaminetzky. Also in his article in Tzohar Journal, Adar II 5768</ref> Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda explained his choice: {{Quote|content="We need people from among us who live by the Torah of redemption and bring peace to the world."}} Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda wanted to organize a formal induction ceremony attended by other rabbis, but Rabbi Shapira declined, saying he "could not bear the publicity." In 1959, Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda also invited Rabbi ] to serve as co-Rosh Yeshiva, delivering his shiur klali on Thursdays in addition to Rabbi Shapira’s on Tuesdays. He also delivered a Saturday night lecture on "]."<ref>https://amhasefer.wordpress.com/2019/10/31</ref> During this lecture, he would choose and discuss passages from "Ketzot" on topics selected by the students in real time. Additionally, he would often stay during the yeshiva's study sessions to discuss issues with the students.<ref>Derech HaTorah HaGo’elet p. 238</ref> He emphasized in-depth study of ]’s commentary, teaching students to see how Rashi’s language subtly addresses the challenges raised by ].<ref>Rabbi Shlomo Korach</ref>

He often stressed, {{Quote|content="the essence of human greatness is revealed in the yeshiva,"}} and his position as head of the yeshiva was, to him, the crowning achievement of his life’s work.<ref>Rabbi Yitzchak Dadon, IsraelNationalNews, "Avraham's Path," article no. 306687</ref><ref>https://marechoen.022.co.il/BRPortal/br/P102.jsp?arc=1169702</ref>

During Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda's lifetime, Rabbi Shapira remained modest, refraining from expressing public opinions that differed from those of Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda.<ref>Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz, https://www.yeshiva.org.il/midrash/13388</ref> Nevertheless, Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda consulted him on various public and personal matters, recognizing his opinions as decisive Torah views on numerous issues.<ref>Rabbi Avraham Israel Silvetsky, Eshel Avraham, article Three Crowns</ref> Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda would send him complex halachic questions for his ruling, particularly those with ideological implications, such as allowing shaving on ]. He would also turn to him for broader matters, like decisions regarding the management of the yeshiva or participating in public demonstrations on various topics.<ref>Gilui Da'at</ref> After the passing of Rabbi Mordechai From in 1972, Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda gathered Rabbi Chaim Steiner and others, saying, "We need to advance Rabbi Avraham further within the yeshiva."<ref>The Shadchan</ref>

====Head of the Yeshiva====
]
In Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda’s final years, he transferred many of the yeshiva’s administrative responsibilities to Rabbi Shapira and would send him questions concerning both the yeshiva’s internal matters and individuals seeking guidance.<ref>Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz, https://www.yeshiva.org.il/midrash/13388</ref><ref>Derech HaTorah HaGo’elet, Introduction</ref> In this period, Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda increasingly turned to Rabbi Shapira for decisions on matters of public concern.<ref>The Shadchan</ref> In his final year, Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda entrusted Rabbi Shapira with the responsibility of leading the fight against the evacuation of Sinai.<ref>The Shadchan</ref> In 1982, before his passing, Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda designated Rabbi Shapira to continue as head of the yeshiva.<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBAuBwPtJnQ&list=PL1tNjYXcHb95ZdXriJWjzct0rC7g6H8nx&index=6 Rabbi Dov Lior at Rabbi Shapira’s funeral</ref><ref>Rabbi Yaakov Ariel, "Ish HaHalacha," Tzohar Journal, Vol. 32, Adar II 5768</ref> Upon his passing, the official appointment was made by the board of the Mercaz HaRav yeshiva,<ref>Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz, https://www.yeshiva.org.il/midrash/13388; Rabbi Chaim Steiner, https://www.yeshiva.org.il/midrash/6318; Rabbi Gideon Perl, HaMaayan Journal</ref> alongside Rabbi Shaul Yisraeli. During this time, Rabbi Shapira established the Machon HaRav Tzvi Yehuda in Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda's memory, publishing the writings of Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook and his son, Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda. Despite Rabbi Shapira's primary focus on Talmud and halacha, he ensured that the yeshiva’s study of emunah (faith) continued as before,<ref>Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz, https://www.yeshiva.org.il/midrash/13388</ref> encouraged and praised these studies, and regularly engaged students in studies of faith on Saturday nights after completing the study of ].<ref>Gilui Da'at</ref> Following Rabbi Yisraeli’s passing in 1995, he remained the sole head of the yeshiva.

A student, Rabbi Gideon Perl, described four main aspects of Rabbi Shapira’s educational approach:<ref>Rabbi Gideon Perl, article on the first anniversary of Rabbi Shapira's passing</ref>
*Warmth and love for the students
*Extensive knowledge of all areas of Torah and deep analysis of every topic and its halachic implications, alongside encouragement of "Torah curiosity" to explore every part of Torah that a student encountered, as well as familiarity with the customs of great Torah scholars
*Recognition of the value of the Jewish people as a foundation for Torah study
*Adherence to the teachings of the great Torah scholars of previous generations, whose authority came from their Torah greatness.

====Yeshiva split====
During the seven days of mourning for Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda, a group of rabbis, including ] Mordechai Sternberg, Amiel Sternberg, Oded Wolensky, ], and Yaakov Levanon, as well as Rabbi ], demanded that Rabbi Shapira and Rabbi Yisraeli appoint Rabbi ] as co-head of the yeshiva and grant him veto power over admissions and faculty appointments, financial management, the yeshiva’s public stance, and more. Their request was denied, creating tension within the yeshiva.<ref>Yosef Lekach, p. 60, note 107</ref> The differences extended to perspectives on issues of nationalism, with Rabbi Tau being a prominent advocate of the nationalist vision, while Rabbi Shapira held a more critical view of the government.<ref>Similar to Rabbi ] and Rabbi ]. See Avramovitz, "Messianic Critique of Gush Emunim," in "Religious Zionism: History, Idea, Society," p. 183</ref> Many of Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda’s senior students, including Rabbis ], ], Yaakov Filber, Chaim Steiner, ], Eitan Eisman, Michael Hershkowitz, Elyakin Levanon, David Chai HaCohen, Yehoshua Rosen, and ], aligned themselves with Rabbi Shapira.<ref>Riklin, "The Struggle of Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda’s Disciples Against the Disengagement," in "Religious Zionism: History, Idea, Society," pp. 40-41</ref><ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QX6GFWSiQKs, Funeral of Rabbi Yehoshua Rosen, minute 1:07</ref>

In 1997, this group, along with about two hundred students, left the yeshiva to establish ]. The split occurred after the yeshiva administration offered students an option to study for a teaching degree alongside yeshiva studies. Rabbi Tau and his associated rabbis alleged that the administration intended to set up a teaching institute within the yeshiva, which, in their view, could compromise the freedom of study there. Rabbi Shapira denied these claims. In an interview, Rabbi Shapira argued that he was the clear authority for the students who left, making it halachically forbidden for them to oppose him and establish a yeshiva in his city.<ref>Morasha, Conversations and Articles of Rabbi A. Shapira</ref> He further stated that until they repented, they were forbidden to issue halachic rulings as students who had opposed their own rabbi’s yeshiva.<ref>HaTzofe, 5 Cheshvan 5758</ref>

In a letter signed by several of the yeshiva’s alumni rabbis, Rabbi Shapira and the students who left were called upon to return to the yeshiva and seek Rabbi Shapira’s forgiveness. Rabbi ] added a note to the letter praising Rabbi Shapira and stressing the prohibition against splitting from the yeshiva he led.<ref>Kipa, News, Rabbi Yaakov Shapira on Har HaMor's Departure: "My Father Was Very Strict with Them and Did Not Forgive," October 3, 2017</ref> Another letter published in HaTzofe argued that the split violated Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda’s teachings on unity, respect for Torah scholars, and Torah itself. The signatories expressed support for Rabbi Shapira, "who devoted himself to elevating Torah and ensuring the integrity of our people and land," encouraging yeshiva students "to absorb from the spirit of our great teachers." Among the signatories were Rabbis ], ], ], Amnon Shugarman, Gideon Perl, Yehuda Felix, Yeshayahu Meitlis, Yehoshua Ben Meir, Shmuel Yaniv, Menachem Felix, Shabtai Zelikovitz, Emmanuel Zarbiv, Yosef Toledano, Simcha Statner, Shabtai Sabato, Yosef Alankva, Chaim Avihu Schwartz, David Chai HaCohen, and others. At the head of the signatories was Rabbi Eliyahu Shlomo Ra'anan, Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook’s grandson.<ref>HaTzofe, 14 Cheshvan 5758</ref>

A group of veteran students of Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda continued to teach at the yeshiva after the split and after Rabbi Shapira’s passing, including Rabbis Yehoshua Rosen, Chaim Steiner, Yaakov Filber, Michael Hershkowitz, Yitzhak Ben Shachar, and Chaim Avihu Schwartz. Some of his students who had previously taught at the yeshiva, such as Rabbis ], ], and David Chai HaCohen, returned during this period to show their support.

In 2003, he instructed his son, Rabbi ], to deliver the shiur klali alongside him at the yeshiva. After his passing in 2007, it was announced that he bequeathed his position to this son in his will. Another son, Rabbi Shmuel, serves as the yeshiva’s manager.

===Rabbinic positions, committees, and Torah Institutes===
In his youth, he was among the initiators of a weekly gathering of Torah scholars at the home of the Chief Rabbi, Rabbi ], to discuss Torah topics and complex halachic questions. This weekly meeting deepened Rabbi Herzog’s respect for him, and he granted him certification as a dayan (rabbinical judge).<ref>http://bneiakiva.org.il/act/דמות-החודש-תשרי-הרב-אברהם-אלקנה-כהנא-ש/</ref> In 1956 (Hebrew year 5716), Rabbi Herzog requested him to join the ] ], which Rabbi Shapira accepted following encouragement from his friend, Rabbi ], who was already serving there and asked Rabbi Shapira to join him.<ref>HaTzofe, 18 April 1956</ref><ref>Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz, https://www.yeshiva.org.il/midrash/6318</ref> In 1971, he was appointed ] (head of the rabbinical court). Starting in 1974, he served on the Rabbinical Supreme Court and as a member of the Council of the ].<ref>Rabbi Chaim Steiner, https://www.yeshiva.org.il/midrash/6318</ref> When he was appointed to the Rabbinical Supreme Court, Rabbi ] refused to head the tribunal, despite being senior in rank according to the court’s guidelines. Rabbi Eliyahu conditioned his participation on Rabbi Shapira serving as Av Beit Din (head of the tribunal).<ref>Rabbi Eliyahu Ben Dahan, former Director-General of the Rabbinical Courts, Komemiyut, Issue 70</ref>

Around the 1970s, Rabbi Shapira responded to the request of a group of medical students led by Rabbi Professor ], delivering a series of lectures over an extended period on issues related to medicine and ]. Among the topics discussed were questions like how to administer injections, insert IVs, and apply bandages on Shabbat. At that time, halachic rulings on these topics were not yet clarified, and he innovated in these areas.<ref>Multi-disciplinary</ref>

In 1980 (Hebrew year 5740), he was appointed a member of the legislative department at the ] and became the chief inspector of the 'Otzar HaPoskim' project.<ref>https://mercazharav.org.il/רבותינו/הרב-אברהם-אלקנה-כהנא-שפירא/</ref> He also served as president of the Maharsha"l Institute, which published the writings of ] and ].<ref>HebrewBooks, Otzar HaTeshuvot Part 7</ref>

During this time, he served on various committees, including the committee on ] issues and the education committee established by Minister ]. One of the notable decisions made by this committee was to recognize years of study in yeshivas as the best form of teacher training.<ref>Biography</ref>

===In the Chief Rabbinate===
]
]
====Appointment, Nature of His Tenure, and Activities====
Towards the end of the tenure of Chief Rabbis ] and ], Rabbi Shapira attempted to extend their term of service. When these efforts were unsuccessful, and under pressure to run himself, he presented his candidacy but refused to campaign actively.<ref>Source quoting "Makor Rishon," statements by Rabbi Eitan Eisman and Avraham Baron, head of Yeshivot Hesder, in a memorial video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPOgjJUybVM</ref> On 1 ] 5743 (March 15, 1983), he was elected as the ].<ref>Rabivim</ref> This was despite the Chief Rabbinate Law of Israel requiring the Chief Rabbi at the time of election to be under 70 years old.<ref>The Pardes, Iyar 5743, p. 29. Records indicate he was 65 at the time of his election, implying a birth year of 1918. However, according to Mercaz Harav, he was born on the 14th of ] 5674 (1914), making him approximately 69 at the time of election.</ref> Rabbi Shapira received 80 votes out of 136, while the other candidates, Rabbi Yitzhak Kolitz and Rabbi ], received 36 and 17 votes, respectively. He served in this role for ten years, alongside Rabbi ] until Nisan 5753 (1993).

Their tenure was characterized by cooperation between the two Chief Rabbis. For example, they alternated weekly ] meetings between their offices<ref>Rabbi Eitan Eisman, memorial video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPOgjJUybVM</ref> and ensured matching chairs were placed in each office for their colleague, meeting weekly to discuss pressing issues.<ref>https://harav.org/dmuto/korot-hayav/harav-harashi/</ref>

]

During his tenure, Rabbi Shapira worked to strengthen the position of rabbis and judges and to improve and elevate the Chief Rabbinate’s exams,<ref>'Shivii' Issue 276</ref> giving them such prestige that Torah scholars from the ], including members of the ] community, traveled to Israel specifically to take these exams. Through his collaboration with Rabbi Eliyahu, they ended the ability to appoint judges without the formal certification exams by the Rabbinate. Additionally, he sought to fortify the authority of the Rabbinate, and during their tenure, the judicial system avoided conflicts with the Rabbinate. They expanded the Rabbinate’s involvement beyond traditional roles such as ] and marriage, addressing various public issues, including a nurses' strike<ref>See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPOgjJUybVM, statement by Rabbi Yehoshua Ben Meir</ref> and worked to increase its authority and influence in multiple areas. Among other initiatives, they introduced a permanent representative from the Rabbinate into the ].<ref>See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPOgjJUybVM</ref> Rabbi Shapira regularly met with the heads of religious education to discuss current events. Rabbi Shapira viewed these activities as a spiritual mission to: {{Quote|content="…teach and instill that the Torah has something to say about every aspect of life, especially in a Jewish state."<ref>Harav</ref>}} When he traveled abroad on behalf of the Chief Rabbinate, he would observe a personal ] due to the significance of representing ].<ref>See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPOgjJUybVM, statement by Rabbi Eitan Eisman</ref>

====Kashrut and Import Department====
]
He and Rabbi Eliyahu placed a special emphasis on improving the ] standards of the Chief Rabbinate, ensuring direct involvement in its operations. They dispatched representatives to various regions, particularly ] and areas without organized rabbinic oversight, organized special gatherings of rabbis and professionals, and personally reviewed lists of products and ingredients. They implemented new regulations, established clear protocols for issuing kashrut certificates, ensured deep involvement of the Rabbinate and its supervisors, and maintained strict oversight of factories and supervising rabbis abroad. This led to the revocation of credentials for some deemed unreliable and the improvement of others. To establish absolute control of the kashrut process, Rabbi Shapira initiated meetings with ] chains, convincing them to refuse merchandise from importers lacking Rabbinate approval. Their efforts created a framework that prevented non-kosher products from entering the market. Together, they built the extensive kashrut infrastructure seen today.

They solidified the Rabbinate’s status as the authority over all kashrut in Israel. To achieve this, Rabbi Shapira and Rabbi Eliyahu co-sponsored legislation prohibiting the issuance of any kashrut certification without Rabbinate supervision, requiring even private kashrut authorities, like ], to be accountable to the Chief Rabbinate. In response, certain ] groups and others launched criticism in various forums, attempting to discourage the Rabbinate’s strict oversight, but Rabbi Shapira held firm to his standards.<ref>Lecture by Rabbi Yitzhak Yaakobovitch - former head of the Kashrut Department of the Chief Rabbinate; see also https://harav.org/dmuto/korot-hayav/harav-harashi/</ref>

As part of their kashrut activities, Rabbi Shapira established the "Import Department" of the Chief Rabbinate, explaining that an efficient import department would elevate the status of a modern kashrut system, integrating Torah with science and food technology, both in Israel and globally.<ref>Rabbi Yitzhak Yaakobovitch, rabbi of South Sharon Regional Council, in "Nitzanei Eretz" Vol. 18, 5773</ref> They introduced new national kashrut guidelines, especially in the areas of imports and meat slaughter abroad, and conducted continuous, strict supervision of kosher slaughtering teams outside of Israel, significantly raising the level of kosher certification abroad.<ref>Testimony by Rabbi Gideon Perl, Head of his Bureau, http://shaalvim.co.il/torah/maayan-article.asp?id=219</ref> His distinguished student, Rabbi Yitzhak Yaakobovitch, who later became the rabbi of the South Sharon Regional Council, was appointed head of the department. Rabbi Shapira also formed a special import committee that included rabbis Simcha HaKohen Kook, Pinchas Korach, Avraham Rubin, Yosef Gliksberg, and Yosef Bar-Shalom, who, at Rabbi Shapira’s request, studied and specialized in food technology. One of the decisions made by this committee was to prohibit the entry of products into Israel without undergoing laboratory testing by a chemist who was God-fearing to verify they contained no non-kosher ingredients.<ref>Lecture by Rabbi Yitzhak Yaakobovitch, Head of the Department and rabbi of South Sharon Regional Council, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCsHzd-zeS4</ref>

====Determining the moment of death====
]
One of the most significant rulings during his tenure in the Chief Rabbinate was the decision in 5746 (1986) on determining the moment of death.<ref>Rabbi Professor Avraham Steinberg, https://www.daat.ac.il/daat/kitveyet/assia/kviat-2.htm</ref> This ruling provided ethical approval for ] in Israel. The decision was made after the ] approached the Rabbinate to resolve the issue, and Rabbi Shapira, recognizing its importance, dedicated significant time and effort to reach a clear ruling. He formed a committee that included, in addition to himself and Rabbi Eliyahu, Rabbis ], ], David Haim Shlush, and ]. He also invited experts in medicine and Halacha such as Rabbi Professor ] and Rabbi Dr. ] as medical advisors.

The committee consulted with senior doctors at ], studying the issues related to transplants and the medical and halachic aspects of determining death, with professional medical guidance from experts in ], ], ], ], and other fields.<ref>Testimony by Steinberg</ref> Once the medical aspect was fully understood, they addressed the halachic perspective and concluded that ], defined as irreversible cessation of breathing, is considered death. Due to halachic concerns, the committee established conditions for confirming brain death, including requiring a certified rabbi with expertise in medical halacha to be present at the time of death determination. Rabbi Shapira gave the final ruling on the matter,<ref>Harav</ref> and the decisions were adopted by the ].

The conditions set by the committee were not initially accepted by the Ministry of Health, preventing organ donations at that time and stopping observant Jews from signing Adi organ donor cards. A month after Rabbi Shapira’s passing, MK ] introduced the Brain Respiratory Death Law, based on the committee’s decisions, which was approved by the Knesset,<ref>Brain Respiratory Death Law, 5768-2008, published in the Official Gazette on 31.3.2008</ref> along with the Organ Transplant Law, providing a halachic framework for organ donations and enabling religious participation.

===Final days===
]
Rabbi Avraham Elkana Kahana Shapira died on the first day of ], 15 ] 5768 (September 27, 2007), at ] in Jerusalem. Toward the end of 5767, his health declined, and he attended the yeshiva's ] prayers in a wheelchair, connected to an ]. During the ], many prayer rallies were held for his recovery,<ref>https://www.ynet.co.il/articles/0,7340,L-3450493,00.html</ref> including a large gathering at the Western Wall.<ref>https://www.yeshiva.org.il/midrash/13374</ref> Despite the Jerusalem custom of not delaying a funeral, his funeral was postponed to the following day, in accordance with his ruling a few years prior that the funeral of a Torah scholar may be delayed to allow a large crowd to attend, in honor of the Torah.<ref>HaRav</ref>

Tens of thousands attended his funeral.<ref>https://www.ynet.co.il/articles/0,7340,L-3454218,00.html</ref> He was buried in ],<ref>https://www.mountofolives.co.il</ref> near the graves of Rabbi ], Rabbi ], Rabbi ], and Rabbi ].

==In public leadership==
===Public leader===
Rabbi Shapira’s prominent public activities began with his opposition to the withdrawal from ], a campaign he led at the request of Rabbi Zvi Yehuda Kook (the "Rav Tzvi Yehuda"), who was weakened.<ref>In the Field https://mercazharav.org.il/הישיבה/השפעת-הישיבה/</ref> Later, as Chief Rabbi, he became known for his opposition to evacuating Jewish areas in ] in general,<ref>In the Field https://mercazharav.org.il/הישיבה/השפעת-הישיבה/</ref> as well as opposing reductions in the authority of the Chief Rabbinate.<ref>Response by Rabbi Shlomo Yosef Weitzen, Yeshiva website https://www.yeshiva.org.il/ask/119394</ref><ref>Rosenbaum, Arutz Sheva, "In the Field"</ref> After completing his tenure, along with Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu, he became a central rabbinic authority for the national-religious community, giving halachic rulings and public leadership.<ref>Response by Rabbi Zalman Baruch Melamed, Yeshiva website https://www.yeshiva.org.il/ask/26362</ref> He was regarded as the senior rabbi of ],<ref>Obituary</ref> and its spiritual leader.<ref>Rabbi</ref> Members of the ] Party would regularly consult with him and Rabbi Eliyahu.<ref>], "Rabbi Shapira Was Right, the Evacuation Was a Mistake," 28 Sept 2007</ref><ref>], "Mafdal Party: No Rush to Leave the Government Yet," 7 June 2004</ref>

He also influenced various fields, including politics, education, Jewish law, and the authority of the Rabbinate, which he continued to defend even after his official term.<ref>Rosenbaum, Arutz Sheva, "In the Field"</ref> His central influence stemmed partly from his position as the rabbi of thousands of alumni from ] who engaged in numerous fields. Many stayed connected to the yeshiva and Rabbi Shapira, so his opinions had a widespread impact.

=== Torah and education ===
Rabbi Shapira encouraged and assisted in establishing many yeshivas, both high and secondary, as well as seminaries and kollels led by his students. He sent yeshiva graduates for Torah and educational work abroad.<ref>Biographical Highlights</ref><ref>Rabbi Avraham Shapira https://www.halachayomit.com/elbaavia/AEravshapira.ppt</ref> He also guided and sent many students to roles in ], ], and education.<ref>Yifrach1</ref> He supported the establishment of small yeshivas (yeshivot ketanot).<ref>Correspondence from 5763 and 5764</ref> Rabbi ] once said of him: {{Quote|content="There are today, across the land, yeshivas led by heads of yeshivas – all from his school."<ref>Rabbi Avraham Shapira https://www.nfc.co.il/Archive/001-D-141515-00.html?tag=20-07-58</ref>}}

=== The Judicial System ===
Concerning the secular court system, he wrote: {{Quote|content="When there are religious courts adhering to Torah law, going to secular courts contrary to Torah law is a severe matter. The ] wrote that it is akin to 'raising a hand against the Torah of Moses.'"<ref>The Rashba’s ruling is cited in ] and ], Choshen Mishpat, section 26.</ref>}} However, regarding involvement in the secular system, Rabbi Shapira struggled between advancing ] and the concern that a judge might be forced to rule in a manner considered ] in halachic terms.

==== Opposition to the Oslo Accords ====
During the ], Rabbi Shapira led the rabbinic opposition, joined by Rabbis ] and ]. Together with Rabbi ], they founded the "Union of Rabbis for the Land of Israel", which became the primary rabbinic body leading the opposition,<ref>Nadav Shragai, "It’s All Halacha," Haaretz, 27 Sept 2007</ref> issuing proclamations and public instructions, creating public pressure, organizing rabbinic gatherings, and more. The Union declared that relinquishing land under Israeli control to non-Jews, even in exchange for peace agreements, was against ] and that one should refuse such orders. This ruling stirred extensive debate. He continued to oppose the ] and was one of the firmest rabbinic voices against the transfer of land.<ref>Yifrach1</ref>

==== Opposition to the Disengagement Plan ====
]
When the Disengagement Plan was announced, Rabbi Shapira, alongside Rabbi Eliyahu, led the rabbinic opposition, comparing its implementation to other biblical prohibitions where following orders is not permitted. He thus called for refusal of orders.<ref>B’sheva, Issue 155, p. 15</ref><ref>Nadav1</ref> One hundred and fifty rabbis joined him in calling for adherence to his ruling.<ref>Arutz Sheva, "More Rabbis Join Rabbi Shapira’s Call," 24 Oct 2004</ref><ref>Menachem Rahat, "Torn Between the Rabbis," NRG 492/804</ref> He also participated in rallies supporting the communities and people of ] and in protests against the government. After the evacuation, he continued to maintain ties with the evacuees for years.<ref>Rosenbaum, Arutz Sheva, "In the Field"</ref>

Ahead of the disengagement, a public interview was published with Chief Military Rabbi ], in which he opposed refusal of orders and claimed one should comply – after asserting he was a student of Rabbi Shapira and acted under his guidance. Following the interview, Rabbi Shapira sent Rabbi Weiss a letter emphasizing his stance that it was a Torah prohibition to comply with the evacuation orders, urging, {{Quote|content="If you claim to be my student, please heed my opinion and do not teach the opposite. If you are not, then do not use my name to fulfill your missions… do not become an accomplice to sin!"<ref>Arutz Sheva, "Do Not Be an Accomplice to Sin!"</ref>}}

His last letter, signed alongside Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu a few days before his death, also addressed the prohibition of evacuating areas of the Land of Israel.<ref>Kobi Nahshoni, "Rabbi Shapira’s Will: Do Not Give Up the Land of Israel," Ynet, 11 Oct 2007</ref>

==As a Halachic authority==
]
=== Halachic approach ===
Rabbi Shapira saw ] as encompassing all areas of life.<ref>For example, Tchumin, vol. 3, pp. 238-241, "On Halacha It Is Said ‘Let Justice Pierce the Mountain’ and It Applies to All People in All Situations"</ref> Unlike some rabbis from ], he placed minimal importance, if any, on meta-halakhic considerations in his rulings, viewing the study of Jewish thought and philosophy as a tool to strengthen observance of halacha, rather than as something that influences halachic rulings.

He allowed for the possibility of new legislation by the state based on communal regulations recognized by halacha, provided they did not contradict halacha, and for ordinances by the Rabbinate when necessary, especially for issues arising in modern times, particularly due to the existence of the ], which lacks historical precedent or direct halachic literature addressing it. However, Rabbi Shapira preferred a conservative approach to halachic interpretation, avoiding changes and innovations when he feared they could lead to overly broad rulings by others. For example, he stated that although it is necessary to long for the rebuilding of the ] and the offering of ], one should not ascend the ] and let such desires dictate halachic rulings.<ref>Tchumin, vol. 5, pp. 431-436; Haaretz, Nadav Shragai, "Rabbi Avraham Shapira: Jews Are Forbidden from Ascending the Temple Mount," 16 May 2007</ref>


==Views== ==Views==
During the ], Shapira ruled that handing over territories violates Jewish law. He also called on soldiers to refuse orders to dismantle Jewish communities during the 2005 ].<ref name='haaretz'/>
===State of Israel===
]
Rabbi Shapira expressed ] views and saw the ] as the beginning of redemption (''atchalta de'geulah''). He viewed the ] as the end of the ]. Regarding the ], he stated that people should vote for a religious party, not a party of both religious and secular individuals supporting the entirety of the land.<ref>Morasha, interview from 1975</ref>

He praised the state for being a "supporter of Torah" and for the unprecedented growth of Torah study in the country, which he felt had not been seen since the ]. Each year on the eve of ], he requested reports from the ] detailing the exact number of Torah students in the country: ], ], ], ], and so forth.<ref>BeChadrei Charedim, interview with Sari Rot and David Rotenberg, "The divide with the ultra-Orthodox will soon be behind us," article 144178</ref>

Despite his state-oriented perspective and his view of the State of Israel as the beginning of redemption, he opposed political decisions that, in his view, contradicted the Torah,<ref>See above, "Land of Israel"</ref> especially territorial concessions. He did not see these oppositions as contradictory to "state loyalty." Conversely, he rejected arguments suggesting that any government's actions could alter the fundamentally positive stance toward the state.<ref>Morasha, interview from 1975</ref>

He explained the complexity and provided evidence that the state is considered a form of redemption simply because it is Jewish governance, even while opposing actions that contradict the Torah by its leaders: {{Quote|content="The Kingdom of Israel during the First Temple period belonged to all of Israel, not to King Jeroboam and his associates. During the rule of wicked kings, there was no exile, quite the opposite, and only when the gentiles conquered the state and Israel became subject to foreign rule did exile emerge... The State of Israel does not belong to Ben-Gurion and his colleagues or the ministers up to this day, but to all of Israel. And thus, because the state is under the governance of the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and not under foreign rule, it cannot be called exile."<ref>Morasha, interview from 1975</ref>}}

===The Jewish People===
Rabbi Shapira placed great importance on a sense of partnership and belonging with ]. He emphasized this yearly in his address on ] before the ], saying: {{Quote|content=" 'I dwell among my people' – what will happen with all of Israel will happen with us."}} In a letter to an ultra-Orthodox yeshiva student, he rebuked him, writing: {{Quote|content="The whole of Israel is not only yeshiva students, but the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, all who are called by the name Israel."}}

===The Chief Rabbinate===
He insisted on maintaining the status and dignity of the ] as the highest rabbinic authority of the State of Israel and the Jewish people, which he believed must be preserved to uphold its authority over Jewish matters. In his view: {{Quote|content="Without the existence of the Chief Rabbinate, the rabbinate would be open to anyone who calls themselves a rabbi, like in the Diaspora, and half of the Land of Israel would be exposed and handed over to Reform and Conservative rabbis, as in the United States. Likewise, the system of rabbinic courts, the strongest Torah-based institution in the Land of Israel, would collapse, with all the serious consequences that would result from this."<ref>Response to foolish statements against the students of "Merkaz HaRav" Yeshiva</ref>}}

===Yeshivas and Torah Learning===
]
Rabbi Shapira believed that the goal of lectures in a yeshiva is to develop new perspectives, but that the primary learning should be done by each student independently in a way that suits their own nature. Therefore, he advocated reducing the number of lectures attended by students, both in ] and in ]. Nevertheless, he valued the opportunity to hear different styles of lectures. This approach continues to be practiced at Merkaz HaRav Yeshiva.<ref>Interview with his son, Rabbi Yaakov Eliezer Kahana Shapira: Arutz 7, Hagit Rosenbaum, Issue 512: Bearing the Burden</ref>

He placed great importance on encouraging young people to study in yeshiva, seeing it as the future of the Jewish people. He worked hard to persuade young people who thought studying in a yeshiva was beyond their capability, emphasizing that above any other Torah study path available, yeshiva study holds a unique and irreplaceable value. Therefore, he strongly opposed the pre-military preparatory programs. In a conversation with preparatory students at his home, he remarked: {{Quote|content="One who does not study in a yeshiva loses not only the acquisition of a study method but also the mental and emotional experience that the yeshiva provides. For those who are capable, it is preferable to study even one year in yeshiva rather than two years in a preparatory program."}}

Rabbi Shapira placed special importance on the concepts of "rabbi and student," which embody the central aspect of the transmission of the ]. He emphasized that the proper way is for the rabbi to receive the Torah from his teacher to pass it on to his students, who will then transmit it to their own students. Thus, he saw the yeshiva as a crucial institution within the Jewish people, as it serves as the place of Torah transmission from generation to generation, considering it for this reason to be "a place where the Divine Presence rests."<ref>Homepage of the Merkaz HaRav Yeshiva</ref> He would often say that a Jew needs three full years of yeshiva study to leave "the presumption of being unlearned in Torah." He maintained that although there is room for learning ] and other subjects, the traditional yeshiva curriculum should not be changed.<ref>Interview with his son, Rabbi Yaakov Eliezer Kahana Shapira: Arutz 7, Hagit Rosenbaum, Issue 512: Bearing the Burden</ref>

===Public laws and leadership===
Rabbi Shapira emphasized that in matters of "public laws" and significant rulings, only the opinions of prominent Torah scholars with established expertise should be considered. He strongly criticized young rabbis lacking experience and qualifications who involved themselves in weighty issues impacting the Jewish public. In this context, he coined the term "rebbalach" (a diminutive form, implying small or unqualified rabbis) as a dismissive label for rabbis who attempted to make rulings on issues beyond their competence. He remarked: {{Quote|content="One who does not have the authority to release an agunah should not take on matters concerning the entire people of Israel."<ref>Interview with his son, Rabbi Yaakov Eliezer Kahana Shapira: Arutz 7, Hagit Rosenbaum, Issue 512: Bearing the Burden</ref>}}

===Tradition of the generations===
He frequently emphasized the preservation of ancient customs and traditions and the sense of connection to the old Jewish world. His student, Rabbi Yehoshua Ben Meir, described Rabbi Shapira as a figure bridging the new generation and the ancient chain of tradition, merging continuity and creativity: {{Quote|content="He ensured that we... would be a continuation of the chain of Jewish tradition and the world of Torah scholarship from previous generations... It is precisely the generation of rebirth and redemption... that recognizes the centrality of the State of Israel in the redemption process, knowing how to integrate eternal treasures with the changing times and events."<ref>Based on the writings of ] in ''Ein Ayah''</ref><ref>Rabbi Yehoshua Ben Meir, "And Abraham Will Be... Instructing His Children... To Keep the Way of the Lord," eulogy on Rabbi Shapira at the thirty-day memorial, on the website of Yeshivat Shevut Yisrael</ref>}}

===Other religions===
When asked about meetings with religious leaders of other faiths, Rabbi Shapira responded: {{Quote|content="We do not go to them to engage in polemics, but if they come to us, it is appropriate to receive them respectfully, and it is permissible to allow them into a ] or ] for the sake of peaceful relations, as has traditionally been done, though the non-Jew should also be respectful and avoid entering with a cross."}}

==Family==
Rabbi Shapira's father was Rabbi Tzvi Asher Kahana Shapira, one of the heads of the Yeshivat HaMekubalim Sha'ar HaShamayim. Rabbi Shapira was the 27th generation descendant of ] and the great-grandson of Rabbi Moshe Maggid Rivlin, a disciple of the ] who immigrated to Israel during the ] of the Disciples of the Vilna Gaon, making him a sixth-generation Jerusalemite.<ref>Arutz 7, Efrat Stern, "When the Gates Opened, There Was a Fragrance of Holiness"</ref> The Shapira family is a ] with a lineage tracing back to ].<ref name="Arutz7">, Arutz 7</ref> On his mother's side, he was the great-grandson of Rabbi Avraham Elkana Zacks, son of Rabbi Moshe Zacks, one of the early disciples of the ] who immigrated to Israel (his father-in-law was Rabbi Tzadok HaLevi Kroiz).<ref>Arutz 7, Efrat Stern, "When the Gates Opened, There Was a Fragrance of Holiness"</ref> His cousins were Rabbi Menahem Ben-Zion Zacks, a rabbi in ], and Rabbi Yehoshua Fishel Zacks.<ref>{{cite book|last=Zacks|first=Moshe Chaim|title=Od Yenuvun B'Seiva|location=Mazkeret Batya|publisher=The Story That Remained|year=2018|page=18|chapter=My Roots on My Father's Side: The Zacks and Kahana-Shapira Families}}</ref> Rabbi Shapira expressed a desire for a book to be published about his family history.<ref>{{cite book|last=Friedman|first=Mordechai (Motti)|title=Moshe Zacks|location=Tel Aviv|publisher=Shapira Publishing|chapter="This Is the Book of the Generations of Man"}}</ref> His sons are Dr. Moshe Chaim Zacks and Dr. Yitzchak Zacks.

The Shapira family was known for its ] (rabbinical judges). Among them was Rabbi Shapira's grandfather, Rabbi Yaakov Leib Levy (brother of Rabbi Nahum of Shadik), who served as ] in the rabbinical court of Rabbi ] and the ] in Jerusalem. Rabbi Shapira himself served as a member of the Great Rabbinical Court and later as its president. His brother, Rabbi Shmuel Kahana Shapira, was Av Beit Din in Jerusalem, and his nephew, Rabbi Eliezer Shapira, also served as a dayan in the Great Rabbinical Court. Rabbi Eliezer's son, Rabbi Shlomo Shapira, continues this role today.

Rabbi Shapira was married to Penina, daughter of Rabbi Yaakov Eliezer Hirschowitz, sister of Rabbi Shalom Natan Ra'anan, who was the director of Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav and son-in-law of Rabbi Kook (she died in 2019<ref>, Arutz 7, January 4, 2019</ref>). The couple had four sons: Shlomo Zalman, Rabbi Ben-Zion (author of the book "Pnei Avraham"<ref>, on the Otzar HaChochma website</ref> and head of the Merkaz HaRav Institute), and the twins Rabbi Yaakov Elazar Kahana Shapira (who succeeded his father as the head of the yeshiva, according to Rabbi Shapira's will) and Rabbi Shmuel Tzvi (who was designated in his father's will as the yeshiva's director).

==Notable students==
* Rabbi Yaakov Elazar Kahana Shapira – Head of ]
* Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz – Ram at Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav and Beit El
* Rabbi Avraham Zacks - Researcher of the teachings of Rabbi ]
* Rabbi Aharon Eisental – Rabbi of ] and Ram at Yeshivat HaGolan
* Rabbi Itamar Orbach – Rabbi of ] and Ram at Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav
* Rabbi Eitan Eiseman – Head of the "Noam" educational institutions, formerly head of his office at the Chief Rabbinate
* Rabbi Aharon Trop – Former head of the high school yeshiva "Bnei Tzvi"
* Rabbi Eliezer Shenwald – Head of the Hesder Yeshiva "Meir Harel" in Modi'in and Ofakim
* Rabbi Elyakim Levanon – Head of Yeshivat Birkas Yosef and Rabbi of the Shomron Regional Council
* Rabbi ] – Head of the Halakha Brurah and Birur Halakha Institute and Rabbi of Jerusalem
* Rabbi Gideon Perl – Rabbi of Alon Shvut and former head of his office at the Chief Rabbinate of Israel
* Rabbi ] – Former Rabbi of Hebron-Kiryat Arba and Head of Yeshivat Nir Kiryat Arba
* Rabbi David Hai HaCohen – Head of Yeshivat Netivot Yisrael and Rabbi of a neighborhood in ]
* Rabbi ] – Head of ]
* Rabbi Chaim Steiner – Ram at Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav and senior rabbi of the ]
* Rabbi Yigal Lerer – Av Beit Din in ] and Ram at Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav
* Prof. Rabbi Yigal Shafran – Head of "Merkhavim" and expert in Medicine and Halacha
* Rabbi Yehoshua Magnes – Ram at Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav, formerly head of the ] in Tel Aviv
* Rabbi Yehuda Zoldan – Chief supervisor of Talmud education
* Rabbi ] – Head of Torah and the Land Institute and head of the Conversion Administration
* Rabbi Yosef Alankwa – Rabbi of the Gaza Strip settlements
* Rabbi Yehoshua Ben Meir – Former head of Yeshivat Shevut Yisrael in ]
* Rabbi Yoel Manovich – Head of Yeshivat HaGolan
* Rabbi Yehezkel Daum – Rabbi of ] and the village of Ramat Magshimim
* Rabbi ] – Former Rabbi of ] and President of Yeshivat Ramat Gan
* Rabbi Yitzhak Ben Shahar – Head of Yeshivat Kedumim
* Rabbi Yitzhak Yaakobovitz – Rabbi of the Southern Sharon Regional Council
* Rabbi Yerachmiel Weiss – Former head of Yeshivat Yerushalayim LeTzeirim
* Rabbi Micha HaLevi – Rabbi of ] and Head of Yeshivat Ateret Nechemiah
* Rabbi Meir Freeman – Rabbinical court judge in ]
* Rabbi Michael Hershkowitz – Rabbi of the village of Neria and Ram at Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav
* Rabbi ] – Rabbi of ] and head of the Har Bracha Yeshiva
* Rabbi Menahem Burstein – Head of ]
* Rabbi Moshe Bigel – Rabbi of ] and member of the ] organization
* Rabbi Moshe Dimantman – Senior lecturer at ]
* Rabbi Moshe Harari – Author of the "Mikraei Kodesh" series
* Rabbi Moshe Klein – Rabbi of the ] and Rabbi of the Kfar Ganim neighborhood
* Prof. Rabbi Neria Guttel – Former head of Orot Israel College
* Rabbi Zvi Kostiner – Head of Yeshivat Midbara KeEden in ]
* Rabbi Shlomo Ben Hamo – Rabbi of ]
* Rabbi Shlomo Korach – Rabbi of ]
* Rabbi Shlomo Shapira – Member of the Great Rabbinical Court in Jerusalem and grandson of his uncle

==Books==
]
===Talmud and Halacha===
* ''Shiurei Maran HaGra Shapira'' – A series of books containing Rabbi Shapira’s general lectures on the ] delivered at Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav, edited by Rabbi Binyamin Rakover in six volumes on eleven tractates: ], ]-], ]-], ]-], ]-], and ]-]. This series won the ] for Torah Literature and the Shapira Prize.
* ''Ma'amak Avraham'' – Selected teachings on the Talmud. Edited by Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz.<ref name="Mareh"></ref>
* ''Shu"t Minchat Avraham'' – Four volumes containing Rabbi Shapira's responsa, rulings, and halachic essays.
* '''' – A book by Rabbi Yitzchak Yaakov Rabinowitz of Ponevezh, edited by Rabbi Shapira in his youth (republished by the Jerusalem Institute with additional parts edited by his student and nephew, Rabbi Shlomo Shapira).

===Faith and Thought===
* ''Morasha – Shichot LeMo'adim'' – A collection of Rabbi Shapira’s talks for Jewish holidays, gathering his lectures delivered at the yeshiva. An additional part, a booklet called ''HaYoshevet BaGanim'', was added, featuring brief words of Torah. Edited by Rabbi Shamir Shintov and Rabbi Yonatan Aviv.
* ''Morasha'' – A compilation of sermons and essays on ], ], education, public leadership, ], Torah study for women, refusal of orders, the laws of the state, and tributes to former yeshiva heads—], his son Rabbi ], and Rabbi ]. Edited by Rabbi Shamir Shintov and Rabbi Yonatan Aviv.
* ''Haggadah Shel Pesach HaYoshevet BaGanim'' – A ] with insights and pearls of wisdom on ]. Edited by Rabbi Shamir Shintov and Rabbi Yonatan Aviv.
* ''Kuntres HaYoshevet BaGanim'' – On the ] and topics of ].
* ''Yemei HaPurim'' – Reflections on ].
* ''Ahavti Toratecha'' – Chapters on the ways of acquiring Torah, based on the teachings of Rabbi Avraham Elkana Kahana Shapira. Edited by Elad Avraham Carmon, 2018.<ref>Arutz 7, "," October 23, 2017</ref>

====Booklets of Sermons====
* ''Yoma Drigla'' – Talks delivered at the annual memorial service for Rabbi ], held on ].
* ''Et LeKol Chefetz'' – A collection of sermons for various Jewish holidays.
* ''Chag HaSukkot'' – A collection of sermons on the holiday of Sukkot.

==Memorials and honors==
* A street in Jerusalem, connecting ] and Yitzhak Rabin Boulevard, is named after him.<ref>, Kipa, September 11, 2017.</ref>
* The central square in the town of ] is named after him.
* A street in the city of ] carries his name.
* A street in the settlement of ] is named in his honor.
* ''Beit Hora’ah Beit Avraham'' – A halachic guidance center led by Rabbi Yaakov Shapira, Rabbi Eitan Eizman, and Rabbi Yehoshua Magnes, established in 2019. It provides answers to halachic questions by students of the yeshiva who are ordained rabbis under the ].<ref></ref>
* A Torah community and kollel, ''Torat Avraham'', in ] is named in his memory.<ref></ref>
* A mikveh in the ] neighborhood is dedicated to his memory.<ref>Dvir Amar, "," Arutz 7</ref>
* The ''Torat Avraham'' Beit Midrash in the Yeshivat Mevakshi Hashem is named after him.<ref>Dvir Amar, "," Arutz 7</ref>
* Previously, there was a high school yeshiva named "Beit Avraham" led by Rabbi Avraham Yaakov Schreiber.


==Further reading== ==Published works==
* ''Shiurey Maran HaGra Shapira'' – A summary of the rabbi's lectures, comprising six volumes
* Rabbi Binyamin Rakover and Rabbi Yitzhak Dadon (editors), ''Imrei Shefer'' – Insights on the Torah, anecdotes, and guidance in Rabbi Shapira’s teachings.
* ''Minchat Avraham'' – A collection of original halachic essays, comprising three volumes
* Rabbi Yitzhak Dadon, ''Rosh Davar'' – Facts and stories Rabbi Shapira told, organized according to the weekly Torah portions, with an appendix titled ''Merosh Amana'' – some of his practices, published in Adar 2010.
* ''Morasha'' – Original essays on various topics
* Rabbi Yitzhak Dadon and Dvir Amar, ''Av BaTorah Av BeChachma'' – Hundreds of stories around ], 2019.
* Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz, ''Me'amak Avraham'' – Summaries of lectures given at the yeshiva. ''Be'ohel Avraham'' - Biography and stories about him.
* Rabbi Ben-Zion Kahana Shapira and Rabbi Yehoshua Weisinger (editors), "''Echad Haya Avraham''": Articles, letters, and memories in commemoration of ten years since the passing of Rabbi Avraham Elkana Kahana Shapira, Jerusalem 2018, published by ].
* Rabbi Avraham Israel Silbetzki, ''Shlosha Ktarmim'', in the memorial book ''Eshel Avraham''.<ref>See a summary </ref>
* Rabbi Chaim Avihu Schwartz, ''Me'Amak Avraham'' – Summaries of lectures given at the yeshiva. ''Be'Ohel Avraham'' – Biography and stories about him.
* Rabbi Ben-Zion Kahana Shapira and Rabbi Yehoshua Weisinger (editors), ''Echad Haya Avraham'': Articles, letters, and memories commemorating ten years since the passing of Rabbi Avraham Elkana Kahana Shapira, Jerusalem 2018, published by ].
* Rabbi Avraham Israel Silbetzki, ''Shlosha Ktarmim'', in the memorial book ''Eshel Avraham''.<ref>See a summary </ref>
* Rabbi Yehoshua Ben-Meir, ''Ve'Avraham Hai'': Insights and stories about Rabbi Avraham Shapira, within the context of Jewish holidays and significant events in Israel.
* Rabbi Yosef Shapira, ''Talmudo BeYado'': A comprehensive biography and review of Rabbi Shapira's halachic decisions and contributions to Jewish law.
* Rabbi Itamar Orbach, ''Tzedakah U’Mishpat'': On the leadership and halachic influence of Rabbi Shapira in the religious Zionist community.


==References== ==References==

Latest revision as of 22:46, 2 December 2024

4th Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Israel
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This article is about the rabbi. For the politician, see Avraham Yosef Shapira. For R' Avraham Shapiro, author of Devar Avraham, see Avraham Duber Kahana Shapiro.
RabbiAvraham Shapira
אברהם שפירא
TitleAshkenazi Chief Rabbi of Israel
Personal life
Bornc. 1910
Jerusalem
Died27 September 2007
Jerusalem
NationalityIsraeli
Religious life
ReligionJudaism
DenominationHardal

Avraham Shapira (Hebrew: אברהם אלקנה כהנא שפירא; c. 1910, Jerusalem – 27 September 2007) was a prominent rabbi in the Religious Zionist world. Shapira had been the head of the Rabbinical court of Jerusalem, and both a member and the head of the Supreme Rabbinic Court. He served as the Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Israel from 1983 to 1993. Shapira was the rosh yeshiva of Mercaz haRav in Jerusalem, a position he held since Rabbi Zvi Yehuda Kook died in 1982.

Biography

Avraham Elkanah Shapira was born to a Jerusalemite family; his father was Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Shapira. As a child, he lived in the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem's Old City.

In his youth, he studied at Etz Chaim Yeshiva in Jerusalem, later moving to the Hebron Yeshiva, where he studied under Rabbis Moshe Mordechai Epstein and Yechezkel Sarna. After his marriage, Rabbi Zvi Yehuda Kook invited him to join Mercaz HaRav yeshiva. He corresponded, in his youth, with the Chazon Ish, Rabbi Zvi Pesach Frank, Rabbi Yitzchak Zev Soloveitchik, and Rabbi Isser Zalman Meltzer.

In 1956, he was appointed as a member of the Jerusalem religious court by Chief Rabbi Yitzhak HaLevi Herzog. In 1971, he was appointed Av Beit Din.

Shapira was elected Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Israel in 1983, serving alongside Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu, who was elected Sefardi Chief Rabbi.

Rabbi Shapira with President George H. W. Bush in the Oval Office
Rabbi Shapira together with Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu at Yom Yerushalayim celebration at Mercaz HaRav

He died on the first day of Succot, 2007. Tens of thousands of people took part in his funeral procession on September 28, 2007. he was interred at the Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery.

Shapira and his wife Penina had four sons. As per his will, his son Rabbi Yaakov Shapira was appointed Rosh Yeshiva of Mercaz HaRav after him.

Views

During the Oslo Accords, Shapira ruled that handing over territories violates Jewish law. He also called on soldiers to refuse orders to dismantle Jewish communities during the 2005 disengagement from Gaza.

Published works

  • Shiurey Maran HaGra Shapira – A summary of the rabbi's lectures, comprising six volumes
  • Minchat Avraham – A collection of original halachic essays, comprising three volumes
  • Morasha – Original essays on various topics

References

  1. הרב אברהם אלקנה שפירא זצ"ל (in Hebrew). Chief Rabbinate of Israel site. נולד בכ"ג באייר תר"ע
  2. Shargai, Nadav. נפטר הרב שהוביל את המאבק לשלמות הארץ. הארץ (in Hebrew). Haaretz. נולד ב 1911
  3. Yaakobi, Yoel. הכהן הגדול מאחיו (in Hebrew). Arutz 7. נולד בירושלים בי"ד באייר תרע"א (1911), אם כי יש המאחרים את תאריך לידתו בשנתיים
  4. Selah, Kobi. הגאון הרב אברהם שפירא הלך לעולמו (in Hebrew). Arutz 7. נולד בירושלים בכד אייר תרע"ד
  5. ^ Sylvetsky, Rochel (26 January 2018). ""There was only one Abraham" – a Tzaddik in our times". Arutz Sheva. Retrieved 13 August 2018.
  6. Shapira, Yaakov (27 February 2013). "Remembering Rav Tzvi Yehuda Kook, (d. Purim, 1982)". Arutz Sheva. Retrieved 13 August 2018.
  7. Wagner, Mattew (2007-09-28). "Rabbi Avraham Shapira dies at 94". Jerusalem Post. Retrieved 2007-09-28.
  8. ^ Shragai, Nadav (2007-09-28). "Former chief Ashkenazi rabbi Abraham Shapira dies at 96". Haaretz. Archived from the original on 11 October 2007. Retrieved 2007-09-28.
  9. Copans, Laurie (2007-09-28). "Former Chief Rabbi of Israel Dies". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved 2007-09-29.
  10. Avraham Shapira (Hebrew)
Jewish titles
Preceded byShlomo Goren Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi of Israel
1983–1993 		Succeeded byYisrael Meir Lau
Chief Rabbinate of Israel, Mandatory Palestine and Ottoman Palestine
Chief Rabbis of
Old Yishuv
(Ottoman Jerusalem)
Rishon L'Tzion
Hakham Bashi
(1842–1918)
Chief Rabbis of
New Yishuv
(Mandatory Palestine)
Acting Chief Rabbi
Ashkenazi
Sephardi
Chief Rabbis of Israel
Ashkenazi
Sephardi
Chief Rabbinate Council
(current as of 2008)
Permanent
Ashkenazi
Sephardi
Categories: