Chayim Ben Attar

Chayim Ben Attar, also known as the Ohr HaChaim after his most famous work, was a prominent 18th-century rabbi and Torah scholar. Born in 1696 in Morocco, he is renowned for his deep Kabbalistic interpretations of the Torah. His works blend mystical insights with a practical approach to Jewish law and ethics, making them accessible and relevant to a broad audience.

In 1733, Chayim Ben Attar made the significant decision to move to the Land of Israel, settling in Jerusalem. This move was motivated by his intense desire to study and teach in the proximity of the Holy Sites. During his time in Jerusalem, he established a yeshiva that attracted many students and became a center of Torah learning. His influence on Jewish thought continued to grow as his teachings spread throughout the Jewish world.

The Ohr HaChaim's commentary on the Torah is particularly cherished for its insightful and comprehensive approach. It incorporates various fields of Jewish study, including Halacha (Jewish law), Aggadah (narrative), and Kabbalah (Jewish mysticism). His works continue to be studied and revered in yeshivas around the world, testament to his enduring legacy as a scholar and spiritual guide.

Books

Or Hachayim: Commentary on the Torah (Classic Torah Commentaries) 5-volume set