New Book Reveals Rabbi Eliyahu’s Educational Approach

Moshe Musa Cohen, a yeshiva high school instructor and educational counselor, presented his new book at the hillula of Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu, zt”l, which aims to make the rabbi’s educational approach and the practical tools he left for the next generation accessible to educators and parents.

Moshe Musa Cohen, a yeshiva high school instructor and educational counselor, appeared in the Channel 7 studio as part of the hillula events marking 16 years since the death of Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu, zt”l, and presented his new book, “Al Pi Darko: Perek Chinuch MiTorat HaRav Mordechai Eliyahu” (“According to His Way: Educational Chapters from the Teachings of Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu”). According to him, the book was written out of a desire to make the rabbi’s educational world, and the ways he suggested for dealing with issues that concern the field of education, accessible to educators, parents, and students. Cohen, who was educated for many years in the rabbi’s close circle, said the book is not intended to focus on the miracle stories associated with his name, but rather on his day-to-day conduct and the practical tools he gave those around him. “With miracle stories that are amazing, you can’t go to the grocery store, I have nothing to do with them except marvel.”

According to him, one of the central topics in the book is the ability to see the good in every person and in every situation. Cohen described how the rabbi was attentive to small details, noticed when someone around him was unhappy or struggling, and acted to strengthen and encourage him. He noted that the rabbi used to interpret complex situations positively and give those around him a sense of worth, belonging, and trust. Cohen added that this trait characterized the rabbi’s attitude toward every person, regardless of personal background or proximity to the world of Torah. According to him, many who came to the rabbi, including those far from observance of Torah and mitzvot, immediately felt the warmth, concern, and love he radiated toward them.

He later addressed one of the central challenges that educators face today, the balance between standing firm on principles and truth, and sensitivity, peace, and the ability to contain others. According to him, the book devotes an entire chapter to this issue and shows how Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu succeeded in combining the two values without giving up either one. Cohen explained that the book’s title, “According to His Way,” also expresses a fundamental educational principle of the rabbi, the understanding that every student is a world unto himself. According to him, an educator must identify each student’s character, needs, and abilities, and adapt the right path for that student through listening and personal familiarity.