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Jonathan Sacks, the former chief rabbi, was buried in a small ceremony Sunday, less than 24 hours after his death from cancer was announced, in accordance with Jewish custom.
The service was carried out according to Covid government guidelines, which means a maximum of 30 people present. The funeral of such a prominent figure in the Jewish community would have drawn hundreds or thousands of mourners in non-pandemic times.
Sacks, who was 72, was the Orthodox Chief Rabbi for 22 years until 2013, and became a companion for life in 2009. His regular broadcasts of the Thought for the Day on BBC Radio 4’s Today show and newspaper articles ensured that their views on values and society reached far beyond the Jewish community.
He had announced three weeks ago that he was being treated for unspecified cancer, having been successfully treated for the disease twice earlier in his life.
The Prince of Wales was one of those who paid tribute, saying that “Sacks’s wisdom, scholarship and humanity were without equal.”
Charles said in a declaration: “His immense knowledge encompassed the sacred and the secular, and his prophetic voice spoke to our greatest challenges with unwavering insight and boundless compassion. His wise advice was sought and appreciated by people of all faiths and none, and we will miss him more than words can express. “
Boris johnson, Keir starmer Y Justin welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, issued tributes following the announcement of Sacks’ death over the weekend.
Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Catholic Archbishop of Westminster, expressed his sorrow to “the world Jewish community for the loss of this great figure … I have lost a friend, the Jewish community a great leader, humanity an eloquent spokesperson.”
The Council of Christians and Jews described Sacks as an “imposing religious and intellectual leader.”
It said: “His books, other writings, lectures and appearances in the media were followed and admired not only by the Jewish community but also by millions of Christians and people of all religions and none … His influence will endure for years to come. through the many it inspired. , influenced and touched with his warmth and wisdom. “
Ronald Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress, said that the Jewish world was deeply saddened. Sacks was a “fascinating speaker and brilliant author who brought the timeless teachings of the Jewish scriptures to Jews and non-Jews alike, fusing Jewish tradition with modern thought … He was also a pillar of integrity.”
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