Minhat Yehuda
Rabbi Yehuda Fetaye was born in Bagdad on 2nd Shevat 5619 [7th January 1859] to a prominent rabbinical family. Yehuda followed the example set by his ancestors and applied himself assiduously to his studies. In the course of his learning he covered the entire range of Talmud and codes, as well as the mystical writings of the Zohar and the works of Rabbi Issac Luria, known as the Ari. Whilst still a young man, he acquired a thorough and broad knowledge of this text, so that when he was just seventeen years old Rabbi Abdallah Somekh, one of the greatest rabbis in Baghdad, granted him the title of rabbi. After Rabbi Somekh passed away in 5649 [1889], Rabbi Yehuda succeeded him as head of the Bet Zilkah yeshiva.Besides for his being a wonderful scholar, Rabbi Yehuda was also famous for his gentile kindness. In fact, he placed other people s physical welfare ahead of his own spiritual progress. The Jews of Baghdad knew that Rabbi Yehuda s home was always open to them. When the river Tigris flooded its banks and several Jewish families who lived near the river lost all they had, several of them moved into Rabbi Yehuda s home and one family even stayed for more than a year. During all this time, Rabbi Yehuda supported the families both financially and emotionally.After three attempts Rabbi Yehuda succeeded in emigrating to Israel. He quickly became famous for his saintliness and kindness. Many unfortunate persons frequented his home. Widows, orphans and those who were unwell found a listening ear and sage advice. Rabbi Yehuda wrote many amulets which were celebrated for his effectiveness. On the day he wrote an amulet he would fast.Rabbi Yehuda prayed intensively for the welfare of the Jewish people. Often, with great discomfort to him self, he would travel to pray at Mearat Hamachpelah, at the graves of the patriarchs and to Kever Rachel where the matriarch Rachel is buried. After Hitler s ascend to power he prayed ardently for the Jews trapped in Europe.Rabbi Yehuda passed away at the age of 83 on 27th Av 5702 [10th August 1942]. He was accompanied to his final resting place on the Mount of Olives by a large crowd, who were led by the rabbis and dignitaries of Jerusalem.