Rabbi Chaim of Volozhin – Nefesh Hachaim
Date of Passing: 14-Sivan. Rabbi Chaim was the outstanding disciple of the Vilna Gaon and the founder of the Volozhin Yeshiva...
Rabbi Chaim of Volozhin
(1749 – 1821) Popularly known as Reb Chaim Volozhiner. Talmudist, ethicist. One of the most prominent disciples of the Vilna Gaon, Reb Chaim Volozhiner established the Yeshivah of Volozhin. It endured for more than 100 years, becoming the mother of all Lithuanian yeshivas. He continued to teach the Vilna Gaon's study method of penetrating analysis of the talmudic text, seeking to elicit the intent and meaning of the writing of the Rishonim – the early commentators. This approach was followed by all the great Lithuanian yeshivas, such as Slobodka, Mir, Kelm, Klezk, and Telz.
His major work is Nefesh HaChaim. It reflects the saintly purity of his character, his greatness in Torah, and his profound wisdom. Its purpose is "to implant the fear of God, Torah, and pure worship into the hearts of the upright who are seeking the ways of God." In his Nefesh HaChaim he emphasizes the power of Torah study and fulfillment of mitzvot to bring a Jew close to God.
Source: Leaders in the Diaspora
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