Shlomo Dov Pinchas Lazar, widely recognized as Berel Lazar, is a prominent Orthodox rabbi affiliated with the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. Born on May nineteenth, nineteen sixty-four, he has dedicated his life to serving the Jewish community, particularly in Russia, where he began his rabbinical service in nineteen ninety.
Since the year two thousand, Lazar has held the esteemed position of Chief Rabbi of Russia, one of two individuals claiming this title. His leadership extends beyond this role, as he also serves as the chairman of both the Federation of Jewish Communities of Russia and the Federation of Jewish Communities of the CIS, playing a crucial role in the Jewish community across the region.
Notably, Berel Lazar is known for his close relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which has earned him the moniker