The Orthodox Union and its board and professional staff join with the rest of the Jewish nation in mourning the passing of HaRav HaGaon Aharon Lichtenstein, zt”l. A prince and a giant has fallen. Rav Lichtenstein was a prince of Torah and exemplified the highest ideals of Torah U’Maddah. He was a giant in his Talmudic expertise, his broad-ranging wisdom, and his exquisite sensitivity to other human beings. His passing leaves a vacuum which will not easily be filled.
Rav Lichtenstein continued the traditions and perpetuated the teachings of his revered father-in-law, HaRav HaGaon Yosef B. Soloveitchik, zt”l. He did so through his prolific writings, and through the thousands of shiurim which he imparted to his countless students. He exemplified the ideals of religious Zionism in an unmatched fashion. He and his family made aliyah more than forty years ago and he led the prestigious Yeshivat Har Etzion for all of that time. Rav Lichtenstein was also involved in the leadership and inspiration of other Torah institutions, including the Stella K. Abraham Beit Midrash for Women – Migdal Oz; Yeshiva University’s Caroline and Joseph S. Gruss Institute in Jerusalem; and the Michlelet Herzog education institute in Alon Sh’vut.
We extend our condolences to his dear wife, Tovah, his children and grandchildren, his numerous students and admirers. The Orthodox Union availed itself of his counsel and guidance regularly, and he imparted that counsel and guidance generously and wisely. The Orthodox Union particularly will miss his awe-inspiring presence; may his memory be a blessing to us all.
Martin Nachimson, President
Allen I. Fagin, Executive Vice President
Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Hersh Weinreb, Executive Vice President, Emeritus