Kes Byadglin: A Spiritual Leader Who Guided Ethiopian Jewry

In the Ethiopian Jewish community, spiritual leaders are known as kesim. They serve as halachic authorities and guide their communities in matters of Jewish law, including marriage, divorce, and communal life.

One of the most respected among them was Kes Byadglin Beynsai, a figure who led his community through years of hardship, transition, and renewal.

Early Life and Formation

Kes Byadglin Beynsai was born in 1915 in the Semien Manata region of Ethiopia, to his parents Sanda and Beynsai.

After losing both of his parents at a young age, he was raised by his uncle, Kes Rubel David, who adopted him and took responsibility for his education. Under his guidance, Kes Byadglin developed a strong foundation in Torah learning and the traditions of his community.

He later continued his studies with leading sages, including the judge Nevi Kinda and Kes Yente Tamino, gaining both knowledge and experience in spiritual leadership.

Family Life and Community Leadership

In 1935, Kes Byadglin married Abru Senbeto Negusa, with whom he had eight children, though two passed away during an epidemic. He later married Aylaw, and together they had four more children.

That same year, he was ordained as a kes and began serving his community. Alongside supporting his family through agriculture, he dedicated himself to teaching and guiding others.

He held regular Torah classes in the synagogue and became a central figure in strengthening faith and observance. His home was open to those in need, offering both practical help and emotional support.

Leading Through Difficult Times

During the rule of Mengistu Haile Mariam, Ethiopia faced war, famine, and widespread suffering.

In this challenging period, Kes Byadglin served as a steady spiritual leader. His community turned to him for guidance, encouragement, and direction in maintaining their way of life under difficult conditions.

Complex Views on Immigration to Israel

When opportunities for Ethiopian Jews to immigrate to Israel began in the 1970s, Kes Byadglin initially opposed the move.

Despite the possibility of a new beginning, he expressed concern about the spiritual state of Jerusalem and questioned whether it reflected the values he believed it should.

Even as many members of his community made aliyah, he remained hesitant.

A Turning Point and Arrival in Israel

In 1991, during Operation Solomon, the vast majority of Ethiopian Jews immigrated to Israel.

At the time, Kes Byadglin was already elderly and had lost his sight. He continued to resist leaving Ethiopia until faced with the reality that his entire community was departing. With encouragement from his son, Kes Adisu, he ultimately agreed to come to Israel.

He settled in Rehovot, where he continued to serve as a leader for his community.

A Remarkable Recovery

After arriving in Israel, Kes Byadglin experienced an unexpected recovery of his eyesight.

He returned to active leadership, even reading from the Torah scroll in synagogue on Shabbat, continuing his role with renewed strength.

Standing for His Community

In Israel, Kes Byadglin continued to advocate for the dignity and traditions of Ethiopian Jewry.

He opposed certain policies that required Ethiopian Jews to undergo additional conversion processes, viewing them as a challenge to the community’s long-standing identity and commitment to Jewish life.

He also worked to strengthen recognition of the kesim as authentic spiritual leaders, representing a rich and ancient tradition.

Preserving Tradition in a New Land

Kes Byadglin placed great importance on maintaining the customs of his community.

He actively participated in life cycle events, including weddings and birth celebrations, ensuring that traditions continued even after the transition to life in Israel.

At weddings, he took part in the traditional celebrations, including the Abeba Yaze ceremony, which includes blessings and music in the Ge’ez language.

A Lasting Legacy

Kes Byadglin’s leadership guided his community through major transitions, from village life in Ethiopia to resettlement in Israel.

He remained a source of strength, continuity, and identity for those he led.

He passed away on the 27th of Cheshvan, 5765 (2004), leaving behind a lasting legacy and a deep impact on the hearts of his community.