Rabbi Avi Goldberg hy"d fell in battle in Lebanon,
on October 26th, 2024
Captain Rabbi Avi Goldberg, of blessed memory, was a dedicated educator and community leader, whose influence deeply touched the hearts of everyone he met. He was a pillar of the ‘Beorcha’ community in Jerusalem - a chazan, a teacher of Torah, a wonderful speaker, a posek, a leader of musical evenings, and much more.
Avi was known for his ability to connect with people of diverse backgrounds and worldviews, to strengthen and emphasize the importance of listening carefully to one another and of standing together.
One of Avi’s dreams was to build a shul for the Beorcha community -- center that will be a magnet for Torah study, for moving prayer, for music and song, and for acts of kindness. He worked energetically towards this goal until a few days before he died a hero's death fighting Hezbollah terrorists in Southern Lebanon. It is, therefore, only natural that Rachel and the children decided to continue the song that was his life by building such a home for the Beorcha community
About Rav Avi Goldberg zt"l
Rabbi Avi Goldberg was a devoted educator and community leader whose impact was felt deeply in every role he embraced. As a "rav tzvai" (chaplain) in the IDF reserves, he provided spiritual guidance and support to his soldiers, demonstrating unwavering commitment to faith and country. He connected with individuals from all walks of life, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity, open dialogue, and mutual respect even among segments of the population with vastly different worldviews and political leanings.
His was a call for all of Israel to unite in confronting the many challenges that face us all, even as we continue to disagree on how to meet others. Beyond his professional responsibilities, Rabbi Goldberg was a loving family man, deeply devoted to his wife and eight children, who were his greatest sources of joy and inspiration. He was killed in action 24 Tishrei (26 October 2024) in Southern Lebanon. As battalion chaplain he could have remained behind as the battle developed, but as a former combat soldier (Golani) he joined the first group of combat soldiers to enter the fray, and was killed with the company's second-in-command.
Rabbi Avi thus became the first IDF "rav tsvai" to be killed while actually engaged in combat himself. In his memory, the funds we are collecting will be used by his family to honor his legacy. His legacy of kindness, leadership, and dedication to Jewish values will be cherished by all who are inspired by him, including many who may not have known him personally.
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