The Torah: Make It Personal
The Torah: Make It Personal
The Interface of the Weekly Torah Portion with Everyday Life
Rabbi Herbert J. Cohen / 326 pages
Rabbi Herbert J. Cohen, originally from Mt.
Vernon, New York, has been a congregational rabbi and pioneering educator for
over forty years, with a distinctive 23 years as Principal of the Yeshiva High School
of Atlanta. He made Aliyah in 2010, and since then, it seems like he’s moved onto writing books!
In this latest release, his seventh book, I believe, Rabbi Cohen goes through each parsha and shares a personal message from each one related to his life. From his life before and after widowhood, personal relationships, the professional life of a High School principal, his children, and more, "The Torah: Make it Personal" is just that – a glimpse into the personal experiences of Herbert Cohen. There are 2-5 entries on every parsha.
The writing style is somewhat “old school” and most people under 50 might not “get” some of the references and personalities cited. However, there is a strong influence throughout the book of Rabbi Aharon Lichtenstein and Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik. Those who have crossed paths with Rabbi Cohen over the years, especially Texas and Georgian natives, would certainly appreciate this collection of very moving revelations and personal experiences.