The Jewish world was struck with shock and grief upon learning of the untimely passing of the Skulener Rebbe, Rabbi Yeshaya Yaakov Portugal zt”l, at the young age of 68. Born into the renowned Skulen dynasty, the Rebbe carried on the legacy of his forefathers and was a beacon of leadership, Torah, and chesed throughout his life.

Rabbi Yeshaya Yaakov was born in 1956 in Bucharest, Romania, to his father the late Skulener Rebbe, Harav Yisrael Avraham Portugal zt”l, and mother, Rebbetzin Reizel a”h. His childhood was marked by the hardships of living under Communist rule, where he witnessed firsthand the mesirus nefesh of his father and grandfather, who worked tirelessly to preserve Yiddishkeit. At the age of four, his family emigrated, eventually settling in Boro Park, where the Rebbe would later assume his leadership role.

Known for his great hasmada and his warm, fatherly nature, the Rebbe attracted chasidim from all over the world who sought his guidance, brachos, and advice. His home became a place of solace and inspiration for thousands, with people often waiting for hours to receive his brachos. Despite the challenges he faced, including a miraculous recovery from a life-threatening illness, the Rebbe remained a steadfast source of strength for the community.

The Rebbe also continued the work of his forefathers by supporting the Chessed L’Avraham network of schools in Eretz Yisroel, ensuring the continuation of this empire of Torah and acts of chessed worldwide.

The Rebbe’s passing comes after a prolonged period of illness that worsened in recent weeks, culminating in his final moments surrounded by family and close confidants who recited Shema Yisrael at his bedside. His levaya will begin at the “Yeshuos Yisrael” Skulen synagogue in Boro Park, and he will be laid to rest beside his forefathers in Monsey.

Rabbi Yeshaya Yaakov is survived by his eight children, as well as his brothers, the Skulener Rebbes of Williamsburg, Monsey, Lakewood, and Yerushalayim, who will continue to carry the torch of the Skulen dynasty. His chasidim and all of klal Yisroel are left mourning the loss of one of the great leaders and tzaddikim of our generation. 

תהא נשמתו צרורה בצרור החיים.