Posted on 03/09/25
Jerusalem, Israel - March 9, 2025 - Rabbi Nota Schiller, zt"l, was niftar on Shabbos Kodesh Parshas Tetzaveh. A renowned leader in the modern baal teshuva movement, he served as the Rosh HaYeshiva of Yeshivas Ohr Somayach in Yerushalayim for many decades. Born in 1937 in Brooklyn, New York, he received his formative chinuch at Yeshiva Rabbi Chaim Berlin before completing his studies at Yeshivas Ner Yisroel in Baltimore. His profound Torah knowledge and sharp insights earned him a place of reverence within the Torah world.
In 1972, Rabbi Schiller joined forces with Rabbis Noah Weinberg, Mendel Weinbach, and Yaakov Rosenberg to establish the Shma Yisrael Yeshiva, an institution dedicated to bringing Torah to young men with little or no prior Jewish education. Over time, the yeshiva became known as Ohr Somayach, a tribute to the revered commentary by Rabbi Meir Simcha of Dvinsk. While Rabbi Weinberg later founded Aish HaTorah and Rabbi Rosenberg established Machon Shlomo, Rabbi Schiller remained steadfast in his mission at Ohr Somayach. Under his guidance, the yeshiva flourished, producing countless talmidei chachamim who established Torah homes and communities around the globe.
Rabbi Schiller’s influence extended far beyond the boundaries of Eretz Yisroel. He was a driving force behind the creation of Ohr Somayach International, which established branches in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Australia. In 1977, he spearheaded the first international Ohr Somayach program in Yonkers, New York, which later relocated to Monsey. His efforts ensured that Jews worldwide could access deep, authentic Torah learning and be inspired to live lives steeped in Torah and mitzvos.
Rabbi Schiller leaves behind an illustrious legacy through his children, who have followed in his path as Torah leaders, and through the countless talmidim who were uplifted by his guidance. His petirah marks the loss of a giant whose unwavering dedication to the klal transformed the landscape of Torah learning and kiruv, inspiring generations to follow in his ways. Yehi zichro baruch.