Avdimi of Haifa

Who is Avdimi of Haifa?

Avdimi of Haifa was among the greatest of the amoraim of Eretz Israel who flourished during the 3rd and 4th centuries.

He was a student of Levi ben Sisi and Resh Lakish and his pupils included Rabbi Abbahu, Rav Zeira and Rabbi Helbo.

His traditional burial place lies in the ancient Jewish cemetery in Haifa, on Yaffa Street. Travelers and pilgrims from the Middle Ages noted his grave site. Spanish pilgrim Isaac Chelo wrote:

"Haifa sits opposite Mt. Carmel and is the birthplace of Rav Avdimi d’min Haifa. In this city there is a community famous for its piety. And all who travel to the Holy Land come to visit the Jewish cemetery, because therein lays [sic] buried many of the wise men of Israel..."