Rabbi Yaacov Arar, Athens Chief Rabbi for Four Decades, Dies

ATHENS, Greece (JTA) — Rabbi Yaacov Arar, who served as the chief rabbi of Athens for over four decades, has died. Arar died July 31 in Israel, according to the Athens Jewish Community. He was 76.

A native of Larissa, a town in central Greece, Arar took up his post as chief rabbi of Athens in 1964 and served for 46 years. “He was a man of deep knowledge, professionalism, kindness and love for his people,” the community said in a statement. “We also express our gratitude for the valuable contribution to our community and hope you rest in peace.”

Arar was buried in Israel, according to his wishes.