Outreach in the Torah

Outreach in the Torah

Rabbi Dovid S. Asher

Mosaica / 130 pp

Rabbi David Asher, rabbi of the Knesset Beth Israel synagogue in Virginia, has put together a warm and inspirational sefer on examples of outreach in the Torah. Outreach, or “Kiruv” as it is colloquially called, is the act of teaching and inspiring non-observant Jews about Orthodox Judaism.

“Outreach in the Torah” brings to light examples of Kiruv in every single Torah portion. For example, on the Torah portion of Teruma there is a discussion on how even  the “Erev Rav” troublemakers were included in the communal commandment to contribute funds for the construction of the Mishkan. If the Erev Rav were included in the community how much more so should we also include those who are not fully observant. On the Torah portion of Vayikra, there is a discussion on how “korban,” sacrifices, is related to “kiruv,” bringing people closer to God. On the Torah portion of Shlach, we read how the tragedy of the evil spies was that they destroyed the unity of the nation while strengthening the unity of the Jewish people brings redemption.

These are very nice, short entries, which will leave everyone with a quick ‘vort’ to say on something about kiruv on every parsha in the Torah. In addition to the classical rishonim that are presented there are also anecdotes on kiruv and education from contemporaries such as R’ Chaim Brisker, Rav Moshe Feinstein and the Chafetz Chaim.

All of us are obligated to work in kiruv in some form or another. It could be in the workplace, the synagogue, and even the home. And, unfortunately, even observant Jews need kiruv sometimes. This book will give us the drive to welcome and encourage both our observant and non-observant brethren.

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