David Yosef

Rabbi David Yosef was born into one of the most esteemed Sephardic rabbinic dynasties in Israel. The ninth of eleven children, he is the son of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, a prominent figure in Jewish law and spiritual leader of the Shas party. Growing up in this environment, David Yosef was immersed in Torah scholarship and public service from a young age. His close relationship with his father profoundly shaped his path, both in terms of halachic learning and leadership. Rabbi David frequently accompanied his father to public teshuvah rallies and later played a crucial role in helping compile his father’s most significant halachic works.

Rabbi David Yosef is recognized for his profound scholarship and proficiency in Jewish law. He has authored numerous works on halacha, with his multi-volume series Halacha Berurah being one of the most prominent contributions to modern Torah study. His works are known for their clarity and depth, making them essential references in Sephardic halachic discourse. Fluent in several languages, including English, Rabbi Yosef travels extensively, delivering Torah lectures to communities worldwide. His ability to communicate complex halachic concepts to diverse audiences has earned him widespread respect in Israel and abroad.

David Yosef’s leadership extends beyond scholarship. In 2013, he joined the Shas Council of Torah Sages, the religious body that guides the party’s decisions. As a close ally of Shas leader Arye Deri, Rabbi Yosef has been a key figure in shaping the party’s religious and political direction, carrying forward the legacy of his father. His firm stance on traditional Torah values, especially in opposition to non-Orthodox movements like the Reform and Conservative branches of Judaism, has made him a vocal advocate for the preservation of Sephardic religious life.

Before being elected Chief Rabbi, he served as the rabbi of Har Nof, a prominent Jerusalem neighborhood, where he founded a Kollel dedicated to training Sephardic dayanim (rabbinic judges). The Kollel has become a prestigious institution, producing many of Israel’s leading Sephardic religious figures.

Despite his achievements, Rabbi Yosef has faced public challenges. In 2020, he was forced to resign as the state-paid rabbi of Har Nof after a High Court petition was filed against him. The court cited his political involvement and outspoken support for Shas, as well as his critical comments regarding non-Orthodox Jewish movements. Rabbi Yosef’s remarks, particularly regarding the Reform movement, led to controversy, though he has stood by his convictions, emphasizing the importance of protecting halachic integrity.

On September 29, 2024, Rabbi David Yosef was elected Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Israel, succeeding his brother, Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef. This marked the third time a member of the Yosef family has held the position, solidifying their leadership in the Sephardic world. His election came at a pivotal moment, as Israeli society faces deep social and political divides. Rabbi Yosef’s vision is to continue his father’s legacy of Torah leadership while uniting the Jewish people through shared values and faith.

Rabbi Yosef has pledged to foster unity within Israel’s religious communities and strengthen the bond between the Torah and the people of Israel. He committed to preserving the traditions and teachings that his father championed, ensuring that Sephardic halachic authority remains relevant in modern Israeli society.

Sources: Gedalia Guttenberg, “The Next Link,” Mishpacha, (April 18, 2013). 
Jeremy Sharon, “Tens of thousands gather again in Jerusalem in remembrance of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef,” Jerusalem Post, (October 13, 2013).
“Rav David Yosef Shlita Will Not Run in Jerusalem Race,” YWN, (October 8, 2014).
Jeremy Sharon, “Rabbi Ovadia Yosef's son forced to quit post for political comments,” Jerusalem Post, (May 4, 2021). 
Gavriel Fiske, “David Yosef elected as Sephardic chief rabbi, the third from his family in the role,” Times of Israel, (September 29, 2024).
Eliav Breuer, “Rabbi David Yosef chosen as Israel’s Sephardic chief rabbi,” Jerusalem Post, (September 29, 2024). 
“THE TORCH HAS BEEN PASSED: Hagaon HaRav David Yosef Elected Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Israel,” YWN, (September 29, 2024).

Photo: David Saka, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.