The Life of Reb Shayele
Rabbi Yeshayahu Steiner, known affectionately as Reb Shayele, was born in 1851 in Zemplén County, Hungary, to a poor but deeply pious family. From his earliest years, young Yeshayahu displayed an extraordinary devotion to Torah study and acts of kindness that would define his entire life. Despite growing up in poverty, his parents instilled in him the values of compassion, humility, and service to others.
In the 1870s, Reb Shayele married and settled in the small village of Kerestir (Bodrogkeresztúr), where he would spend the rest of his life. Despite his own financial struggles, he immediately began his lifelong mission of helping others in need. His home became known throughout the region as a place where anyone could find food, shelter, and comfort, regardless of their background or circumstances.
A Life of Chesed
Reb Shayele's approach to chesed (loving-kindness) was extraordinary in its scope and selflessness. He believed that no act of kindness was too small, and would give his last piece of bread to a hungry stranger. His home had no locks - day or night, anyone could enter and find what they needed. He would often wake to find strangers sleeping in his home and would quietly prepare breakfast for them without question.
One of the most famous stories tells of when his wife complained that they had no food for their own children because he had given everything away. Reb Shayele replied, "The One who feeds the birds of the sky will not let our children go hungry." Moments later, a wealthy merchant arrived with a wagon full of food as payment for a blessing, demonstrating the divine providence that seemed to follow Reb Shayele's acts of faith.
Teachings and Values
Reb Shayele's teachings were simple yet profound. He emphasized humility above all else, despite his reputation for holiness. He saw himself as merely a servant of the Almighty, and this humility allowed him to connect with people from all walks of life. He welcomed Jews and non-Jews alike, believing that all people were children of God deserving of love and respect.
His faith in divine providence was absolute, allowing him to give freely without worry for tomorrow. When a poor orphan girl had no money for her wedding, Reb Shayele sold his own Shabbat clothes to provide her with a proper celebration, saying, "A mitzvah done with joy is worth more than the finest garments."
Miracles and Healing
Many people came to Reb Shayele seeking healing for various ailments. His gentle touch and heartfelt prayers were said to bring comfort and recovery to countless individuals, though he always attributed any healing to the Almighty's mercy rather than his own powers. Stories of miraculous recoveries and answered prayers spread throughout Hungary and beyond, drawing visitors from far and wide.
Yet Reb Shayele never sought recognition or payment for his help. He lived in the same simple conditions as when he first arrived in Kerestir, giving away any gifts or donations he received to those in greater need.
His Eternal Legacy
Reb Shayele passed away on the 3rd of Iyar in 1925, leaving behind a legacy of chesed that continues to this day. His grave in Kerestir immediately became a place of pilgrimage, with thousands of visitors coming each year to pray, seek blessings, and draw inspiration from his example.
Today, our guest house stands as a living memorial to Reb Shayele's values. Just as he opened his home to all who needed help, we continue his mission by providing free kosher meals and affordable accommodation to visitors from around the world. The principles that guided him - compassion, generosity, and unconditional love - remain as relevant today as they were over a century ago.
Visitors to Kerestir often report experiencing not just physical comfort, but spiritual healing and renewed faith. In this way, Reb Shayele's spirit continues to touch lives and inspire acts of kindness, proving that true tzaddikim never truly leave this world - they simply transition from physical presence to eternal influence.