A Visit To Pekiin And the Gravesite Of Rabbi Oshaya
During an outing during the week of Passover we visited the cave of Rebbi Shimon in the historic town of Pekiin, and also visited the gravesite of Rabbi Oshaya nearby. It was a very lovely spot indeed, and quite moving to see the crowd of folks who arrived to pray in this special spot.
Looking down on Pekiin, in Northern Israel, not far from Carmiel.
And now a few facts about Rebbi Oshaya:
R. Oshaya was a Sage from the city of Tiriya, who was recognized as a pious man of his generation and known for his leadership, honesty and deep religiosity. His pleasant ways aroused among the people a love of God (Levit. Rabba, 30).
R. Oshaya, or Aba Oshaya, was a fourth generation Amora, a Talmudic Sage of the fourth generation of rabbis after the compilation of the Mishna.
By trade he was a laundryman (JT Baba Qama 10:5) and he would wear clothes that were distinct from those who gave him laundry to wash so that they would not suspect that he had taken theirs, heaven forbid.
So if you are ever in Northern Israel, I do recommend a visit to the stunning location of Pekiin and of course a visit to Rebbi Oshaya is a must! See you there under the giant shady tree!
