By Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, Rabbi of the Western Wall and Holy Sites
A Man of Peace and Truth
In memory of Rabbi Sholom Dov Ber Lipskar, of blessed memory
“Torah scholars increase peace in the world.”
This statement is not only a reflection on the nature of Torah scholars but a fundamental demand and guiding principle for anyone who carries the banner of Torah. Yet how difficult it is to increase peace in the world when one stands in the name of truth! How can one stand firmly by the principles of Torah without creating conflict? How is it possible to draw hearts closer without compromising eternal truths?
Rabbi Sholom Dov Ber Lipskar, of blessed memory, who passed away on Shabbat, was a living embodiment of the verse “Love peace and truth.” He showed us all how to hold onto the fiery passion of Torah and Chassidut with intensity, while at the same time radiating light and warmth to everyone around him. Through his noble and distinguished conduct and through his unique personality, he sanctified G-d’s name.
I first encountered Rabbi Lipskar through the Falic family although he was also a friend of my father, may he live and be well, from their yeshiva years. I was fortunate to come to know this extraordinary individual — a rabbi of the old world, a type that is hard to find in our generation.
In Bal Harbour, Florida — a neighborhood where Jews were once not allowed to live — Rabbi Lipskar built a stronghold of Judaism. Under his leadership, other synagogues flourished, numerous kosher restaurants were established, and a large, ever-growing community developed, welcoming more and more people thirsting for a connection to Judaism.
What amazed me most was his ability to transcend divisions: Ashkenazim, Sephardim, the ultra-Orthodox, and even those not yet observant — all admired him, all sought his guidance. The synagogue he founded had to expand repeatedly to accommodate the crowds — all thanks to his remarkable personality.
Rabbi Lipskar knew the deep secret of “bringing people closer to the Torah” — he brought people closer to the Torah, not the Torah down to the people. He never made compromises in matters of Judaism, yet managed to explain the most complex ideas in the simplest language, so that anyone could understand.
I remember our conversations at the Western Wall, where he would often come during his many visits to Israel. He was always interested in the work being done, always looking for ways to expand the gates of holiness, always eager to help with projects exposing Jewish history and educating the next generation.
Beyond his local community, Rabbi Lipskar raised funds for an immense number of projects in Israel and around the world. He supported soldiers, settlements, and the preservation of holiness at the Western Wall. He defended Israel passionately in the international arena and elevated the image of Torah in Israel and the standing of Israel among the nations.
He was not only a great Torah and Chassidic scholar but also a man of action. Over forty years ago, in addition to founding his synagogue in Bal Harbour, he established the Aleph Institute — a groundbreaking organization that supports Jewish inmates, military personnel, and their families. Thanks to his compassion and vision, Rabbi Lipskar provided Torah, dignity, and hope to those society had forgotten.
When I was privileged to get to know Rabbi Lipskar, I encountered the image of a true rabbi — a man who remained faithful to the truth of Torah while truly loving every Jew, no matter their background. He never abandoned his principles, and yet he knew how to touch hearts and ignite the spark of Judaism in countless souls.
With the passing of Rabbi Lipskar, we have lost a true leader — a man of peace and truth — who knew how to connect worlds without surrendering any of them. A true emissary of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of blessed memory, whose presence honored Torah and the Chabad movement wherever he went. Fortunate is the Jewish people to have had rabbis like him among its leaders. Woe for what is lost and cannot be replaced.
Our deepest condolences are sent to his noble wife, who stood by his side in his mission and served as a beacon of light to the large community surrounding them — Rebbetzin Chani Lipskar — to his son, Rabbi Zalman, who continues his path, to his daughter Devorah Leah, and to the entire family.
May his memory be for a blessing.
