Day of Hilula
Shammai
א׳ בתשרי
Jerusalem
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
Shammai the Elder, Av Beit Din and counterpart of Hillel, was known for his strictness and careful deliberation. He was the founder of the House of Shammai. He taught: “Make your Torah study a fixed practice.”
"Make your Torah study a fixed practice."