On the thirty second anniversary of his death, tens of thousands of people gathered at the grave site of Rabbi Yisrael Abuhatzeira, also known as the Baba Sali.
On Wednesday the traditional public celebration in memory of the great rabbi known as a hilula, took place in the southern Israeli town of Netivot, which has been a sight of pilgrimage for many of the Rabbi’s followers since his death.
Abuhatzeira was born in Morocco, and immigrated to Israel and lived in Netivot. Though he become one of the greatest and most respected rabbis of his generation, he requested to be buried in the town that had become his home. In addition to being a symbol for spiritual enlightenment, he was known for his humility and humble manners.
Many people attributed him with giving out blessings and performing miracles for many people throughout his life, for which he became famous.
At the Hilula event participants continue to pray and ask for special blessings even after his death. According to a report which was published by army radio, the tens of thousands that attended yesterday did that same.