Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commented on the
passing of Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz:
"From the depths of my heart, I lament the passing of Rabbi Adin
Steinsaltz, whose knowledge was vast, a Torah genius and a man of exemplary
spirit.
While I grew up close to Rabbi Steinsaltz in the Jerusalem of my childhood, I
was privileged to know him only years later. I met with him several times at
his home and I heard his fascinating lessons which always imparted knowledge to
me. These were not lessons in the conventional sense but spiritually uplifting
conversations that embraced the entire world – Tanakh, the wisdom of our sages,
history, philosophy, culture, linguistics and more. I also read his books that
were imbued with wisdom, knowledge, contemplation and faith.
Rabbi Steinsaltz was an outstanding example of the persistent Jew. He invested
unceasing effort in his commentaries, especially his explanation of the Talmud
which made the study of gemara accessible to the public at large in clear and
understandable language. His important works will stand for generations at the
foundation of Jewish heritage, as an eternal flame in his memory.
Rabbi Steinsaltz's love of Israel was greatly influenced by his closeness to
the Lubavitcher Rebbe and Chabad. The Rebbe's exceptional personality made a
strong impression on him, just as happened to me in my meetings with him. In my
view, in both of them – the Lubavitcher Rebbe and his student, Rabbi Steinsaltz
– I saw the same great light of love of humanity and love of the Jewish people.
I send my deepest condolences to the Steinsaltz family and the Rabbi's students
in Israel and around the world.
May his memory be blessed."
