Dr. Zechariah Haber, HY”D, lived a life defined by humility, brilliance and dedication to both Torah and science. Born in the United States to Aharon and Miriam Haber, Zechariah Haber moved to Israel at the age of 8. As the eldest of four brothers, he set an example of commitment and hard work that would define his life.

His journey began in the Hesder Yeshiva Har Etzion in Alon Shvut, known as “the Gush,” where he combined rigorous Torah study with military service. As part of the Hesder program, he joined the IDF Tank Corps and became a tank commander, demonstrating his leadership and unwavering commitment to protecting Israel. Following his service, he pursued his passion for agriculture, earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in plant sciences at the Hebrew University’s Faculty of Agriculture in Rehovot. During this time, he married his wife, Talia, and together they built a beautiful family.

Zechariah Haber’s academic excellence led him to doctoral research at Tel Aviv University, where he worked under Dr. Nir Sadeh in the Grain Institute. His groundbreaking research focused on growing wheat under drought conditions, and he had already identified the wheat gene responsible for seed size—an achievement with significant implications for global agriculture. Tragically, he did not live to complete his PhD, but on June 9, 2024, Tel Aviv University posthumously awarded him his doctorate, recognizing his invaluable contributions.

The day after the war began, on October 8, 2023, Zechariah Haber was called up to serve in the reserves with Brigade 14, Battalion 87, Company Magen. He served with courage and dedication as a tank loader until he fell in Gaza on January 16, 2024. He fought alongside his close friends, including Yair Katz, who was killed with him, and Netzer Simchi, who fell in battle a week later. Their memories remain a source of strength and inspiration for those who survived them.

Despite his scientific achievements and military service, Zechariah Haber was deeply rooted in Torah study. Throughout his life, he taught Torah in yeshivas, universities, and among friends. In his fourth and fifth years at Yeshivat Har Etzion, he began compiling a Talmudic encyclopedia—a vast and scholarly work that remained unknown to his family until after his passing.

Aharon Haber, his father, recalled, “We weren’t sure if this was meant to be published, but the style he used suggests he intended it for the public. It might not have been in its final form, but we are being as true to his work as possible.”

This work, titled “Mincha Hadasha” (“New Offering”), will be a five-volume encyclopedia covering different aspects of Jewish law. The first volume, “Orach Chaim,” focuses on daily Jewish life and has already been published by Yeshivat Har Etzion. Despite an initial print of 500 copies, demand was so high that they quickly sold out.

“We would like the book to be spread far and wide,” Aharon Haber explained. “Right now, it’s only available in Hebrew, but we hope to translate it into English in the future.”

Each volume takes about a year to prepare, and generous donors have helped make the project a reality. The second volume will cover “Choshen Mishpat,” dealing with Jewish legal issues.

“For the family, these books keep his spiritual being alive,” said Aharon Haber. “They reflect his deep concern for mitzvot and the reasons behind them. He was fascinated by the question of whether mitzvot are meant to help us live in a holy way practically or if they primarily serve a spiritual purpose in bringing us closer to God.”

Zechariah Haber’s approach was unique. He carefully selected sources that resonated with him, including the writings of the Rambam, Rav Kook and Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch. His work offers fresh perspectives on mitzvot, exploring their practical and spiritual dimensions. “His discussion points bring in interesting ways to view mitzvot,” Aharon Haber noted. “For example, the mitzvah of giving terumah (offerings) to the Kohen has a practical side—providing for the Kohen (since they didn’t have land rights)—but is there also a deeper, spiritual meaning behind it?”

Despite his intellectual and spiritual depth, Zechariah Haber never sought recognition. Aharon Haber reflected: “He never discussed this book. He was a very normal person, a regular nice guy who didn’t speak about himself. He was smart and dedicated but never engaged in self-promotion. He was much more interested in what others were doing.”

This selflessness extended to his time in the tank corps. “In his IDF unit, he was the one who went around checking on everyone, bringing people what they needed,” Aharon Haber said. His care for others was evident in every aspect of his life, from his scholarship to his military service and his devotion to family and friends.

Zechariah Haber’s legacy continues to inspire. His academic achievements, his deep Torah scholarship, and his commitment to Israel’s defense stand as testaments to his remarkable character. His family and community are determined to share his work with the world, ensuring that his insights and dedication to Torah live on.

Zechariah Haber lived a life of meaning, striving for excellence in everything he did. His legacy—of Torah, science, and unwavering commitment to Am Yisrael—will continue to inspire generations to come. May his memory be blessed.

For those interested in acquiring the first volume of “Mincha Hadasha,” it can be ordered via email: [email protected]

Arnie Draiman is a philanthropic consultant, helping people and foundations give their tzedaka money away wisely, efficiently, and effectively, for over 25 years. In addition, he consults to hi-tech startups, and is an expert in social media marketing and promotion. He can be reached at: [email protected]