Rabbi from Chabad in Jerusalem unexpectedly collapses and tragically passes away
Rabbi Shmuel Gelbstein: A Pillar of the Chabad Community in Jerusalem
Rabbi Shmuel Gelbstein, a revered figure in the Chabad-Lubavitch community, passed away suddenly at the age of 57 due to cardiac arrest at his home in Kfar Chabad on Friday night, 15th Av, 5785 (August 2025). His life was marked by dedication, humility, and acts of kindness, particularly in his role as the manager of the Perushim Chevra Kadisha burial society in Jerusalem.
Born into a distinguished Chabad family, Rabbi Gelbstein was the grandson of Rabbi Moshe Menachem Mendel Gelbstein, the founder of ZAKA and a former chair of the Perushim Chevra Kadisha. He carried on the family legacy by dedicating his life to these roles, earning admiration for his devotion and compassionate service.
Rabbi Gelbstein was widely recognized as a baal tefillah (prayer leader), leading services at significant Chabad synagogues during Jewish festivals. He was a dedicated mispalel (worshipper) at the Chabad synagogue on Rechov Chana and, in later years, resided in Kfar Chabad, maintaining strong ties to the local community there.
The funeral procession for Rabbi Gelbstein began from his home at 12 Dvar Malchut Street in Kfar Chabad, passing through Yisrael Aryeh Leib and Beit Menachem synagogues before ending at the Shamgar funeral home. He will be laid to rest on the Mount of Olives next to his father.
Rabbi Gelbstein's impact extended beyond his spiritual leadership. He was known for his community chesed activities, offering help and support to fellow community members, a testament to his humility and loving character. His legacy continues to resonate within the Anash (Chabad) community in Israel.
In addition to his community work, Rabbi Gelbstein was a devoted family man, leaving behind children and grandchildren. His sudden passing has left a void in the Chabad community, but his memory and the impact he made will live on.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, a motorcycle accident near Kfar Chabad resulted in the tragic death of a father of five. The community is asked to say Tehillim (Psalms) for the deceased and his family during this difficult time.
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In remembrance of Rabbi Shmuel Gelbstein, his focus extended beyond spiritual leadership to the realm of community health-and-wellness, often offering help and support to fellow community members. His legacy in mental-health and fitness-and-exercise, largely overlooked in this narrative, is a testament to his holistic approach towards overall well-being. [Source] [2]
