Rav Avrohom Yehoshua Heschel Ohev Yisroel Apta Rav

Rabbi Avraham Yehoshua Heschel [of blessed memory: 5515 - 5 Nissan 5585 (1755-March 1825 C.E.)] the Apter Rebbe, was born in Żmigród, Poland in 1748. He was a main disciple of the Rebbe Elimelech of Lizhinsk. He is also often referred to as "the Ohev Yisrael," both after the title of the famous book of his teachings, and also because its meaning ( "Lover of Jews") fits him so aptly. He was laid to rest in Mezibuz. His matzeiva is in the same ohel as the Baal Shem Tov. The Kapishnitzer Chasidic dynasty descends from him.