Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch

Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch: A Leading Halachic Authority

Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch is one of the most prominent figures in Jewish law today. He serves as the Av Beit Din of the Eda Haredit in Jerusalem and heads a yeshiva in Beit Shemesh. Born in 1926, his life has been dedicated to Torah scholarship and leadership.

Early Life and Education

Rabbi Sternbuch was born in London to Asher Sternbuch and Devorah, a descendant of the Vilna Gaon. Tragically, his father passed away when he was nine years old. Despite this, Rabbi Sternbuch excelled in his Torah studies. He attended Yeshivat Torat Emet in London and later Yeshivat Chevron in Jerusalem. During his time in Israel, he formed close relationships with leading rabbinic figures, including the Brisker Rav, Rabbi Yitzchak Zev Soloveitchik.

Marriage and Early Career

At 27, Rabbi Sternbuch married Yaffa, daughter of Yaakov Schechter, a close associate of the Chazon Ish. After their marriage, the couple settled in Jerusalem. There, he became the head of Yeshivat Hametivta. Later, he moved to Bnei Brak, where he authored his famous series Moadim U’Zmanim. He also led a kollel and a community in Rosh Ha’Ayin.

Years in South Africa

Rabbi Sternbuch spent two decades serving the Jewish community in Johannesburg, South Africa. His time there was marked by strong leadership and a focus on preserving Torah observance.

Current Roles in Jerusalem

Today, Rabbi Sternbuch resides in the Har Nof neighborhood of Jerusalem. He founded a Torah center named after the Vilna Gaon. This center includes a study hall and a synagogue. In 2003, he was appointed as the Av Beit Din of the Eda Haredit. Known for his firm stance against Zionism, he continues to play a vital role in halachic decisions.

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