Israel's new Sephardi Chief Rabbi inaugurated in historic ceremony

In a solemn ceremony steeped in tradition, Rabbi David Yosef was officially inaugurated as Israel's new Sephardi Chief Rabbi (Rishon LeZion) at the historic Rabban Yochanan ben Zakkai Synagogue in Jerusalem's Old City.

In a touching moment that bridged generations of Jewish leadership, Rabbi Yosef was draped in the ceremonial robe once worn by his late father, the revered Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, who served as Israel's Sephardi Chief Rabbi from 1973 to 1983.

The intimate morning ceremony was attended by notable figures including Israeli President Isaac Herzog, former Chief Rabbi Shlomo Moshe Amar, members of Moetzet Chachamei HaTorah, and other religious leaders. During the proceedings, Rabbi Amar read the official investiture document, which was then signed by the attending rabbis.

A larger celebration is scheduled for 3:00 PM at Jerusalem's Great Synagogue, where over a thousand guests, including rabbis, public officials, and family members, are expected to attend.

At this main ceremony, Rabbi Yosef will don his own unique ceremonial robe, specially designed with gold embroidery that pays homage to his father's legacy while establishing his own distinct identity as Chief Rabbi.

Rabbi David Yosef follows in the footsteps of his father, Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, who was one of the most influential Jewish religious authorities of the 20th century and served as Israel's Sephardi Chief Rabbi for a decade.

KIkar HaShabbat contributed to this article.