Rebbetzin Rivka Shapira, Founder of Shuva Midrasha in Ofra, Dies at 91
Rebbetzin Rivka Shapira, co-founder of the "Shuva" Midrasha in Ofra and a key figure in Religious Zionism, has passed away at 91. Her funeral took place on Sunday evening in Ofra.
The world of Torah and religious education is in deep mourning following the passing of Rebbetzin Rivka Shapira at the age of 91. One of the founders of the "Shuva" Midrasha in Ofra and a prominent figure in Religious Zionism, she passed away on Sunday. Her funeral was held on Sunday evening in the community of Ofra, where she established her life's work.
Born in Afula and a graduate of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rebbetzin Shapira dedicated her life to teaching Torah and education. Over the years, she taught at the Kfar Pines Ulpana and the "Ora" Institute. Later, alongside her husband, the late Rabbi Moshe Shapira, she founded the "Shuva" Midrasha in Ofra, raising generations of female students.
She is survived by a large family, including her prominent sons: Rabbi Yehoshua Shapira, head of the Hesder Yeshiva in Ramat Gan, and Rabbi Yitzhak Shapira, author of the book "Torat HaMelech."
The "Shuva" Midrasha expressed profound grief over the loss of their founder and spiritual guide:
"With a broken heart, we mourn the passing of our great and beloved teacher... She taught a Torah of grace and kindness. How can the world exist without her?"
Her educational and spiritual legacy will continue to guide her students and institutions for many years to come. May her memory be a blessing.
