The French Jewish community, both in Eretz Yisroel and throughout the Diaspora, is mourning the passing of Rav Ron Chaya zt”l, one of the most influential figures in French-speaking kiruv and harbotzas Torah, who was niftar at the age of 67 after suffering a stroke several weeks ago.

Rav Chaya, rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Yeshuos Yosef in Yerushalayim, had been hospitalized at Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center in recent weeks following the stroke. His condition deteriorated significantly during the day and he was niftar overnight.

Widely regarded as one of the foremost mekarvei rechokim among French Jewry, Rav Chaya devoted decades of his life to bringing thousands of Jews closer to Torah and Yiddishkeit. Through his inspiring lectures, infectious joy, and deep love for every Jew, he transformed countless lives, helping thousands of individuals and families reconnect with their heritage.

His unique speaking style earned him an enormous following throughout France, Israel, and beyond. Rav Chaya was known for presenting the timeless truths of the Torah with passion, clarity, and conviction, never hesitating to publicly articulate the Torah’s perspective, regardless of prevailing public opinion.

Over the course of many decades, he produced thousands of talmidim and played a pivotal role in spreading Torah throughout the French-speaking Jewish world. His influence extended far beyond the walls of his yeshivah, reaching communities across Europe and Israel.

Among those paying tribute was his former student, Knesset member Yossi Taieb, who mourned the loss of his revered mentor.

“The Torah mourns tonight. It is with profound sorrow that I learned of the passing of one of the greatest benefactors of the French Jewish community, our teacher Rav Ron Chaya, zt”l.

“Rosh yeshiva of Yeshivas Yeshuos Yosef, the rav educated thousands of students and brought them closer to the Creator.

“Over the years, I merited to seek his counsel, appreciate the depth of his Torah wisdom, and receive his blessing.

“The rav, of blessed memory, welcomed everyone with a radiant smile, humility, selfless devotion, and love for every Jew.

“‘And the entire House of Israel shall weep over the burning that Hashem has kindled.'”

The levayah is scheduled to take place on Monday at 12:00 p.m. at Yeshivas Yeshuos Yosef on Chizkiyahu Shabtai Street in the Ramot Daled neighborhood of Yerushalayim.

Tehei nishmaso tzrurah bitzror hachaim.

{Matzav.com}