Day of Hilula
Rabbeinu Tam
ד׳ בתמוז
Ramerupt, France
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
Rabbeinu Tam (Rabbi Jacob ben Meir), one of the foremost Tosafists and a grandson of Rashi, was regarded as the preeminent sage of his generation. He authored Sefer HaYashar, containing halakhic rulings and responsa, as well as Tefillah Lechol Pa'am VaRega.
"Anyone who demeans a Torah scholar has no share in the World to Come."