Levi Yitzchok of Berditchev

Levi Yitzchok of Berditchev was a prominent Ukrainian rabbi and Jewish leader, renowned for his contributions to the Hasidic movement. Born in 1740, he went on to become a respected figure in his community, serving as the rabbi of several notable towns, including Ryczywół, Żelechów, Pinsk, and Berdychiv. His tenure as rabbi of Berdychiv would ultimately become the most closely associated with his legacy.

As a disciple of the Maggid of Mezritch and Rabbi Shmelke of Nikolsburg, Levi Yitzchok of Berditchev was deeply rooted in the traditions of Hasidic Judaism. He succeeded Rabbi Shmelke as the rabbi of Ryczywół, demonstrating his growth as a leader and a master of his faith. His impact extended beyond his own lifetime, as he is also notable for being the great-grandfather of Israeli artist Isaac Frenkel Frenel. Levi Yitzchok of Berditchev passed away in 1809, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a revered Hasidic master and Jewish leader, often referred to as the holy Berdichever and the Kedushas Levi.