Celebrating the Legacy: Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky's Journey

Rabbi Shmaryahu Yosef Chaim Kanievsky was born on the 15th of Tevet, 5688 (1928), in Pinsk, Poland, to Rabbi Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky, known as the Steipler, author of Kehillot Yaakov, and Miriam, sister of the Chazon Ish, Rabbi Avraham Yeshaya Karelitz.

At the age of six, he immigrated to the Land of Israel with his family and settled in Bnei Brak, a city renowned for its vibrant Torah community.

Rabbi Kanievsky studied together with Rabbi Chaim Greineman and Rabbi Nissim Karelitz at the Tiferet Zion Yeshiva in Bnei Brak, under the guidance of Rabbi Michel Yehuda Lefkowitz. He later transferred to the Lomzha Yeshiva in Petah Tikva, where he formed a close connection with Rabbi Shach, who served there as a lecturer, and with Rabbi Eliyahu Dushnitzer, the yeshiva’s spiritual supervisor.

Deeply connected to his father, the Steipler, and his uncle, the Chazon Ish, Rabbi Kanievsky absorbed Torah learning and sacred traditions directly from them. He married Rebbetzin Batsheva, the daughter of Rabbi Yosef Shalom Elyashiv. After his marriage, he studied at the Chazon Ish Kollel. From a young age, he served as a member of the Council of Torah Sages of the Ashkenazi community and is today one of the leading figures of the Lithuanian Jewish world.

When his father, the Steipler, passed away, Rabbi Shach eulogized him, saying, “The Steipler left behind a son like him,” and added, “There is someone to guide us in Halacha.” On another occasion, Rabbi Shach described Rabbi Kanievsky as “the greatest among us in Torah knowledge, a true Torah scholar who can be consulted on all matters and who commands respect for his wisdom and fear of Heaven.”

Rabbi Kanievsky is renowned for his comprehensive mastery of the entire Torah. Each year, on Erev Pesach, he completes the entirety of his Torah study. In addition, he is the author of dozens of books covering a wide range of sacred topics.

Rabbi Kanievsky is also known for his exceptional kindness. He serves on the rabbinical committee of Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Center and the Kupat Ha’Ir charitable organization.

May we bless Rabbi Kanievsky that Hashem grant him long days, a life filled with goodness, and years of tranquility. May longevity, happiness, and peace continue to be added to him.