Vaetchanan: Mitzvah 419 – Concept 22:Chidah: Morning Blessings
The 11th of Adar is the Yahrtzeit of Rav Chaim Yosef Dovid Azulai, (the Chida), (1724-1806). Arguably the Sephardic equivalent to the Vilna Gaon, the Chida, was born in Jerusalem. At the age of 18, he learned under Rav Chaim ben Atar (the Ohr Hachaim). His works include a collection of responsa known as Yoseif Ometz, the Shem HaGedolim (a biographical work on 1300 authors and 1200 writings, dating back to the Gaonim), and many others. He passed away in Livorno, Italy.
“The study of Torah is equal to all.” This is true for a number of reasons: Torah study helps us overcome the Yetzer Harah, the Evil Inclination.
Another reason is that Torah study brings atonement from the sin of Lishon Harah.
The Zohar Chadash teaches that the redemption from this exile will come in the merit of Moshe. When we study Torah we stir his merit and bring the redemption closer.
(Kiseiy Rachamim, Chapter 40)