Mind-Benders of Jewish History
One sage across three continents — and a teacher of the young Arizal
The Radbaz was born in Spain, was expelled as a boy in 1492, and grew up in Safed. As an adult he served for some forty years as chief rabbi of Egypt in Cairo before returning to Safed in his old age — a single life that touched Europe, Africa, and Asia. Among the students of his Cairo yeshiva was the young Arizal, Rabbi Yitzchak Luria.
How we know
David ben Shlomo ibn Abi Zimra, the Radbaz (born Spain c.1479; died Safed 1573). Expelled in 1492 and raised in Safed; relocated to Cairo in 1517 and served as chief rabbi of Egypt for roughly four decades before settling in Safed. His Cairo yeshiva's students included the Arizal (1534–1572).
One of many fact-checked wonders across eight traditions at The Spring of Wisdom.