Thousands Streaming to Baba Sali Gravesite in Netivot

Tens of thousands of people are streaming to the Negev town of Netivot to participate in annual ceremonies to mark the 28th year since the Baba Sali, Rabbi Yisrael Abuhatzeira, left this world. The "hilula" -- the annual memorial ceremony to mark the passing of the revered Torah sage -- is set to be held Thursday, the fourth day of the Hebrew month of Shevat, at his tomb. The Baba Sali, as Rabbi Yisrael ben Masoud Abuhatzeira was known, lived in the southern Israeli town upon his arrival from his native Morocco. A world-renowned Kabbalist, the Baba Sali transformed Netivot into the "Meron" of the south, receiving hundreds of thousands of people seeking his blessing during his lifetime. Many of his descendants were likewise endowed with special Kabbalistic gifts.