Shmuel Bornsztain (sixth Sochatchover rebbe)

Shmuel Bornsztain (1956 – 7 August 2023) was the sixth Sochatchover Rebbe. He was the son of Rabbi Menachem Shlomo Bornsztain, the fifth Sochatchover Rebbe, and a descendant of Rabbi Avrohom Bornsztain, the first Sochatchover Rebbe, known as the Avnei Nezer.

Following his father's death in 1969, Shmuel assumed the leadership of the Sochatchov Hasidic dynasty. He maintained the traditions and customs of the dynasty, and led its community in Israel and abroad. He was known for his scholarship, piety, and dedication to his followers.

Rabbi Bornsztain resided in Jerusalem, Israel and his leadership impacted numerous Jewish communities worldwide. He was a respected figure within the broader Hasidic world. His death in 2023 marked the end of an era for the Sochatchover Hasidim. He was succeeded by his son, Rabbi Menachem Shlomo Bornsztain, who became the seventh Sochatchover Rebbe.