David Messas

Rabbi David Messas was a prominent figure in the Jewish community, born to a distinguished family of rabbis. His father, Rabbi Chalom Messas, held esteemed positions as the Chief Rabbi of Morocco and later as the Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem. Rabbi David Messas went on to forge his own path, serving as the Chief Rabbi of Geneva for several years and later holding the position of Chief Rabbi of Paris for multiple terms. Concurrently, he led the Rabbinical Council, demonstrating his widespread influence and respect within the community.

Throughout his career, Rabbi David Messas also dedicated himself to education, heading the École Maïmonide in Boulogne-Billancourt. He resumed his role as Chief Rabbi of Paris in 1995, a position he held until his passing. Despite struggling with a lengthy illness, he remained actively engaged in his duties until his death on November 20, 2011, at the age of 77. His funeral, attended by notable figures such as Rabbi Shlomo Amar, was held in Paris, and he was subsequently laid to rest in Jerusalem's Har HaMenuchot cemetery, beside his father's grave.