Posted on 11/05/24
Jerusalem, Israel - Nov. 4, 2024 - On November 4, 2024, Israel’s new Chief Rabbis, David Yosef and Kalman Ber, were formally inducted at a ceremony at the Israeli President’s Residence in Jerusalem, Israel. In the presence of President Isaac Herzog, the two rabbis affirmed their commitment to serving the nation, marking the beginning of their ten-year term.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Minister of Religious Affairs Rabbi Michael Malchieli, Members of the Knesset, the Director General of the Chief Rabbinate, Rosh Yeshiva and Israeli Municipal Rabbis, the chief rabbi of the IDF, and the extended families of the Chief Rabbis. This ceremony, larger than the previous induction, had a sizable audience and musical elements, contrasting with the modest ceremony held eleven years ago under then-President Shimon Peres.
In his address, President Herzog stressed the importance of unity and public trust, urging for “a moderate, brave, and approachable rabbinate, connected to the public and unifying communities within Israel and the Diaspora.” He expressed hope that the new Chief Rabbis would promote a “connecting, moderate, and unifying” approach to Jewish leadership, especially in Halachic rulings that resonate with modern times. Herzog also extended prayers for the safety of Israel’s soldiers and the return of displaced families to their homeland.
Unity was a common theme throughout the speeches. Chief Rabbi Yosef, honoring the legacy of his father, the revered Maran Ha’Ra Yosef, spoke of his commitment to a rabbinate that “embraces all circles and denominations and leads the people in the spirit of Halacha.” He pledged to work alongside Chief Rabbi Kalman Ber to support IDF soldiers, visit army camps, and comfort the families of kidnapped Israelis. Rabbi Yosef concluded in English with a statement that resonated with the audience: “We will make the Rabbanut great again!”
Chief Rabbi Ber echoed this commitment to unity, expressing a vision rooted in the teachings of Rabbi Kook. "My greatest mission is to bring about unity among all parts of the people,” he said. Rabbi Ber vowed to make the Torah’s teachings accessible to all, fostering connections and mutual respect. Reflecting on the resilience of his grandfather, a Holocaust survivor, he shared, "I learned that the most important thing is to live for others." He also expressed solidarity with all Israelis in captivity and distress, saying, “As long as our 101 brothers and sisters have not returned from captivity, and as long as the last soldiers remain on the battlefield, our hearts are with them. I call upon the Creator to say enough is enough for our troubles."
Rabbi Ber, who served as Chief Rabbi of Netanya for the past decade, extended gratitude to Netanya’s Mayor Miriam Feirberg and other dignitaries in attendance.
Minister of Religious Affairs Malchieli also addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of the Chief Rabbis’ roles. “A rabbi’s role in every city is vital, and for chief rabbis, the weight of their responsibilities touches every citizen of Israel,” he said. Reflecting on the legacy of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, he added, “Before he was a giant in Torah, he was a giant in his love for every person. Today’s elected rabbis embody this great stature in Torah, as well as a capacity for listening and leadership.” Minister Malchieli also praised President Herzog’s dedication, noting his pride and wisdom in representing Israel on the global stage.
