Kever of Or HaChaim HaKadosh Desecrated on Har Hazeisim

A shocking discovery was made Thursday at the kever of the Ohr HaChaim HaKadosh, the matzeivah of the tzadik was desecrated and vandalized.

The timing carries significant weight, as this date marks the Yahrzeit of the Or HaChaim’s grandfather, Harav Chaim ben Rav Moshe ben Attar; after whom the Ohr Hachaim was named.

According to reports from the scene at Har Hazeisim, vandals defaced the Magen Dovid adorning the kever. Moroccan Jews say that the symbol was crafted by the talmidim of the Or HaChaim, possibly including the Chida, Harav Chaim Yosef David Azulai.
The desecration caused deep distress among the mispallelim who arrived at the kever; a frequent destination for people in need of yeshuos.
.
Following the discovery of the vandalism, immediate contact was made with Rabbi Zuriel Crispel, Chairman of the Cemetery Council. Crews were quickly dispatched to the site to remove the offensive markings and restore the dignity of the Tziyun.

News of the vandalization was first reported by Israeli media outlet Hamechadesh.

Israeli police have opened an investigation into the incident in an effort to locate and apprehend those responsible for the shameful act of vandalism.