Rabbi Yitzchak Luria (1534-1572), known as the Ari HaKadosh, was the greatest Kabbalist who ever lived. Born in Jerusalem and raised in Egypt, he arrived in Tzfat in 1570 and in just two years transformed Jewish mysticism forever. His teachings, transmitted through his disciples — especially Rabbi Chaim Vital — became the foundation of all subsequent Kabbalistic study. He revealed the deepest secrets of the Zohar, developed the system of Lurianic Kabbalah, instituted Kabbalat Shabbat, and composed prayers and meditations still recited today. He passed away at the age of 38, yet his influence on Jewish thought is immeasurable. His kever in the Old Cemetery of Tzfat is among the most visited holy sites in the world.