Rabbi Moshe Ben Tov: A Life of Kabbalistic Wisdom and Spiritual Healing
Rabbi Moshe Ben Tov (1930 - July 16, 2010) was a renowned Kabbalist, known for his unique ability to read mezuzot, earning him the title “Roeh Mezuzot,” or “the Mezuzah Seeker.” Through his extraordinary spiritual insight, Rabbi Ben Tov could discern the past and present conditions of individuals by examining their mezuzot. This practice made him a revered figure in the world of Jewish mysticism, and people from all walks of life sought his blessings and guidance.
Rabbi Moshe Ben Tov was born in 1930 in Warzazat, a town in central Morocco, to Masoud and Leito. His name, Moshe, was given following a dream his mother had, where she saw two righteous figures, Rabbi David and Rabbi Moshe, who instructed her to name her soon-to-be-born son Moshe. This early spiritual event set the tone for his life, one marked by deep connection to the spiritual world and mystical experiences.
At the age of five, Rabbi Moshe’s family moved to Casablanca, where he began his formal Torah education at Talmud Torah and later at the Otzar HaTorah yeshiva. His family was well-established in the community, with his father working as a grain trader and employing many workers. By the time he was eighteen, Rabbi Moshe began helping his father in the business, balancing his responsibilities with his growing spiritual inclination. From a young age, he was known for examining mezuzot, which later became a central part of his life’s work.
In the early 1960s, Rabbi Moshe was actively involved in helping the Betar movement bring Jews from Morocco to Israel. In 1956, several months after marrying his wife, Rosa, Rabbi Moshe made aliyah to Israel via France. The couple first settled in Kiryat Shmona and Safed before moving to Be’er Sheva, where they raised eight children. Rabbi Moshe lived in Be’er Sheva for about thirty years, during which he worked to strengthen religious life in the city and developed a close connection with the revered Baba Sali, one of the most influential Jewish mystics of the time.
In 1986, Rabbi Moshe Ben Tov moved to Jerusalem, where he founded a synagogue near his home. His spiritual activities flourished as he provided blessings and guidance and continued his work reading mezuzot. Initially, Rabbi Moshe earned a living by selling jewelry, but as his reputation grew, people from across Israel and beyond came to seek his spiritual counsel. Eventually, he closed his business to focus entirely on providing blessings and spiritual guidance.
Rabbi Moshe was instrumental in establishing synagogues in the Shmuel Hanavi and Ramat Shlomo neighborhoods of Jerusalem. He also organized Torah programs for Moroccan youth, set up evening yeshivas, and helped create a Shabbat-observant taxi service. His dedication to communal welfare extended further through the creation of the Chesdei Dor VeDor association, which provided assistance to the needy, orphans, and widows, and offered guidance on family purity practices.
Throughout his life, Rabbi Moshe Ben Tov was known for his ability to provide spiritual healing and advice. Through his examination of mezuzot, he offered insights and blessings to those seeking guidance in health, relationships, and spiritual matters. Many came to him for blessings to help with illnesses, fertility issues, and personal conflicts. His wisdom and deep spiritual connection made him a trusted figure for those seeking divine intervention in their lives.
Rabbi Moshe Ben Tov passed away on July 16, 2010, and was buried on Har HaMenuchot in Jerusalem. His legacy continues through the institutions he founded and the lives he touched through his spiritual work. The Dor Va Dor Institutions, which he established, continue to provide support to those in need and uphold the spiritual traditions he cherished.
Rabbi Moshe Ben Tov’s unique ability to read mezuzot helped countless individuals navigate life’s challenges and strengthened their connection to HaShem. His life embodied the power of Jewish mysticism as a force for healing and transformation. His memory remains a source of inspiration for all who seek spiritual guidance and blessings. May his merit protect us.
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