The life and teachings of Rabbi Avraham Dov of Avritch
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Rabbi Avraham Dov of Avritch, of blessed memory, author of the sacred book Bat Ayin and one of the great lights of Hasidism.
Watch the theme video in honor of the hillula of the holy Bat Ayin.
A few things to know before exploring further.
Rabbi Avraham Dov of Avritch was a rabbi and Hasidic leader who moved to the Land of Israel and led the Hasidic community in Safed. He is known as “the Bat Ayin” after his book, a collection of Torah teachings on faith, humility and serving God that is still studied today.
A hillula marks the anniversary of a tzaddik's passing. In honor of the Bat Ayin, people gather for a meal, study his teachings, speak about his greatness and strengthen their prayer. Traditions associated with him include stories of deliverance following these meals and the study of his book, inspiring the devotion surrounding this day.
The Bat Ayin passed away in Safed on 12 Kislev 5601, in 1840, and was buried in the city's ancient cemetery. Each year, his hillula is observed on 12 Kislev with Torah, prayer and meals in his honor. This year's gathering is on Saturday night, 12 Kislev 5787 — November 21, 2026.
Dr. Eliezer Levy, an emissary of Moses Montefiore, described a Shabbat visit to Rabbi Avraham Dov. He portrayed the rabbi as a learned man devoted to the community's needs.
Read the full storyA letter concerning the book's publication gives two reasons for the author's chosen title. The first is the numerical connection, through gematria, between the book's name and his own name, Avraham Dov Ber.
Read the full storyIt is told that Rabbi Yisrael Leib, a relative of the Bat Ayin, obtained bread for Jews facing hardship in Safed. He gave everyone a portion, and some bread remained afterward.
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According to tradition, during an uprising in Safed the Bat Ayin was offered special shelter. He preferred to remain where the other Jews were staying.
Read the full storyThe tomb, prayer candles and visitors in the ancient cemetery.
In the Bat Ayin's teachings, recognizing one's shortcomings is no reason for despair. A person is called to see himself as still at the beginning of the journey, ask Heaven for help and begin his service anew—today.
More insights from his teachingsJoin the hillula meal in honor of the Bat Ayin, or help support the meal.