Rabbi Yehuda Jabali was a rabbi who apparently lived in Ksar el-Kebir in the 18th century and after his death around 1780 he became a mystical figure and a local saint. Very little is known about him because he left no compositions and he is not mentioned in scriptures anywhere. According to popular beliefs among the Jews of Ksar el-Kebir, Rabbi Yehuda Jabali is a tzadik whose Zechut (prerogatives) help people in their prayers, especially barren women who want children. Near the Jewish cemetery of Ksar el-Kebir, a sanctuary was established in his honor, which is still used today as a place of pilgrimage. In the past, Jews used to come to the holy site to pray and study, as well as to commemorate his day of Hilula, which began on the seventh day of Av. Even today, a Hilula is held in his honor every year in the complex by jewish individuals who originated in Ksar el-Kebir. According to the custom, those attending the Hilula light candles in the alcove set aside for the purpose until thick smoke comes out of it. According to legend, Rabbi Yehuda Jabali personally attends the place on the same day and his image appears in the candle fire or smoke. Women also often shout his name and make rejoicing sounds and men often chant a special 11-stanzas piyyut composed in honor of the Tzadik.
