Day of Hilula
Rabbi Aryeh Levin
ט׳ בניסן
Jerusalem, Israel
In Jewish tradition, the day of a tzadik's passing — the 'Hilula' — is not a day of mourning, but a day of spiritual elevation and awakening. According to the teachings of Kabbalah, on this day the soul of the tzadik ascends to a higher realm, and their light and merits shine upon the world. Many Jews mark the day through Torah study, reciting Tehillim, lighting a memorial candle, and good deeds for the elevation of the soul — to connect with the tzadik's path and qualities.
His Life and Legacy
The legacy of R. Aryeh Levin is one of pure kindness and boundless love for others. His figure became an enduring symbol of the Jerusalem man of chesed, and the stories told about him continue to inspire generations of educators and charitable activists. He was held in great esteem across the full spectrum of Jewish life and received the State Fighters' Decoration for his work on behalf of underground prisoners. His home in the Mishkenot Yisrael neighborhood became a place of pilgrimage, and his grave in Sanhedria Cemetery continues to draw many visitors who come to pray and honor his memory.
"Tell me about one Jew — and I will tell you how good he is."