By COLlive reporter
Confusion at a nationally televised ceremony in Israel has prompted concern within rabbinic circles, after an individual dressed in the distinctive attire of the Rishon LeZion was mistaken by attendees for the country’s Sephardic Chief Rabbi.
During the annual torch-lighting ceremony marking Israel’s Independence Day, cameras briefly focused on a man seated among dignitaries who appeared to be wearing the traditional robes and headgear associated with the Rishon LeZion.
While many viewers assumed the figure was the sitting Sephardic Chief Rabbi, it was later revealed to be Eyal Tzionov, a private individual who has recently gained attention online.
The incident appears to have caused genuine confusion among attendees. Several individuals reportedly approached Tzionov under the impression that he was the Rishon LeZion, including associates of senior government figures. Among them was the husband of Minister Gila Gamliel, who is said to have requested a blessing, as did government advisor Rivka Paluch.
The confusion, it now appears, was not an isolated episode. According to Israel’s N12, a similar incident occurred just days earlier when Tzionov visited the Temple Mount. His appearance there prompted concern among security officials, with Shin Bet reportedly contacting the Chief Rabbi’s office to question why the visit had not been coordinated in advance. The office was forced to clarify that the individual in question was not the Chief Rabbi at all, but an impersonator.
Only a small number of recognized rabbinic figures legitimately wear the traditional Rishon LeZion attire. These include former Sephardic Chief Rabbi Shlomo Amar, former Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef, and his brother, David Yosef, who currently holds the position.
Rabbi David Yosef did not attend this week’s ceremony due to illness, a detail that may have contributed to the confusion.
Tzionov operates a TikTok account under the name “Sar HaShalom Maran Eyal Tzionov,” where he regularly posts videos of himself dressed in rabbinic garb, delivering Torah-style messages, visiting kevarim, and interacting with passersby. In some of his content and public appearances, he has also declared himself to be the Moshiach who will redeem the Jewish people from exile. With a modest but growing following, his activity has drawn mixed reactions—ranging from curiosity to sharp criticism.
According to reporting by journalist Yishai Cohen, officials within the Chief Rabbinate of Israel are now examining whether any legal avenues exist to prevent such impersonations. However, a senior source within the Rabbinate acknowledged that precedent offers little recourse.
“Legal history shows there is no real way to prevent a private individual from wearing the clothing of a Chief Rabbi,” the official stated.
so what’s the
problem? that he’s competing with the Rebbe?
he doesnt stand a chance.
he doesn’t have à Mashehu of his charisma