Israel ben Meir di Curiel
16th-century rabbi in Safed
Israel ben Meir di Curiel was a prominent figure in 16th-century Judaism, serving as a rabbi in Safed, Ottoman Syria. Born in 1501, he belonged to the esteemed Curiel family, whose reputation and influence extended beyond their local community. As a member of this notable family, di Curiel's life and work were likely shaped by the family's standing and traditions.
Di Curiel's life as a rabbi in Safed spanned several decades, coming to a close with his passing in 1573. Although the specifics of his rabbinical career and contributions to Judaism are not detailed, his association with the Curiel family is noteworthy. The family's prestige was later formally recognized when they were ennobled by Joao IV of Portugal in 1641, nearly seven decades after di Curiel's death. This honor reflects the family's enduring reputation and influence, which di Curiel was a part of during his lifetime.