Rav Berland at Nichum Aveilim for the Tzaddik Rav Alter David Chaim Stern ZT”L

At the beginning of the month of mercy and forgiveness (Elul), the world of Torah and Chassidut was struck with shock upon hearing the bitter news of the passing of the Kabbalist and Tzaddik, the Gaon Rabbi Alter David Chaim Stern ztvk"l, from the city of Bnei Brak.

A long-standing friendship bound Moreinu HaRav Eliezer Berland shlit"a and Rabbi Alter David Chaim Stern zt”l. This connection brought Moreinu HaRav shlit"a to leave his holy dwelling and make the effort to travel to Bnei Brak especially in order to comfort the distinguished family. On Monday night, the eve of the 9th of Elul, the final day of the Shiva, Moreinu HaRav shlit"a arrived at around 12:25 AM at the house of mourning on Sokolov Street in Bnei Brak, where the family was sitting in mourning for their great father. Moreinu HaRav shlit"a stayed with the mourners for about twenty minutes, comforting them with words of Torah and eulogy on the greatness of their father zt"l, and shared inspiring stories from his friendship with him in the time of the Steipler, when he learned with him chavruta. During the nichum aveilim (consoling of mourners), the Rav also mentioned halachic matters, spoken in a way to give chizzuk and comfort to the bereaved family. At the conclusion of the nichum aveilim, the Rav rose from his place, recited Kaddish, and as he left, continued to speak of the praise and greatness of the Tzaddik, Rabbi Alter David Chaim Stern zt"l.

Before you are photos from the nichum aveilim (Photos: Shmili Stern):