A Short Tribute

Hacham Amor Abitbol, son of Shlomo, was born in 1782 in Sefrou, Morocco. In 1798 he married Donna Elbaz and the couple had ten children born to them.

Hacham Amor Abitbol dealt in commerce and would study Torah during the night. He was famous for his hospitality and his home was open to everyone. Hacham Yaakov Abuhatzeira – known as the Abir Yaakov – would be his guest whenever he came to Sefrou from Tafilalt.

Hacham Amor Abitbol corresponded with the sages of his day, including Hacham Yitzhak ben Walid, Hacham Yosef Birdugo, Hacham Amram Elbaz and others. He had many students, including Hacham Moshe Raphael Elbaz, known as the RAM"A.

Hacham Amor Abitbol died on 1 Shevat, 5614 (1854) after a prolonged illness.

Hacham Amor Abitbol wrote extensive explanations and original commentary on the Torah that were published in the following books: Minhat ‘Omer – Responsa, ‘Omer Hatnufa – Commentary on the Torah, ‘Omer Man – Sermons on the weekly Torah Readings, Et HaZmir – missives and poesies, Shirat ‘Omer – commentaries on legends of our sages, Shirat Ha’Omer – poems and liturgical songs.