New Book by Rabbi Oppenheimer Connects Torah Teachings to War's Trauma
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
Rabbi Nathan Oppenheimer, head of the Re'ut Yeshiva, has published "Starting from Genesis," a new book of Torah commentaries written during the war. The book reflects on the grief and heroism experienced since October 7th, noting an increased reader engagement with his teachings. The commentaries are deeply influenced by the war's events and losses, yet aim to elevate the reader's perspective towards divine knowledge. Rabbi Oppenheimer sees the current period as a time of both suffering and emerging faith, with a new dawn breaking after the darkness of Simchat Torah.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- The book reflects on grief, heroism, and spiritual yearning in Israel post-October 7th.
- Oppenheimer notes increased reader engagement and perceived significance of his teachings during the war.
- Commentaries are influenced by national pain and the loss of students and friends.
- The book aims to elevate readers' perspectives towards divine knowledge and closeness to God.
- Oppenheimer views the war as part of divine counsel, leading to a new dawn of faith.
Rabbi Nathan Oppenheimer, head of the Re'ut Yeshiva, has compiled his Torah commentaries written during the war years into a new book titled "Starting from Genesis." The work, which follows his previous book "Faithful Faith," delves into the weekly Torah portions and rabbinic teachings, reflecting on the grief, heroism, and spiritual yearning that have emerged in Israel since the October 7th attacks.
Rabbi Oppenheimer explains that for over a decade, he has written weekly commentaries on the Torah portions, but the recent war has significantly altered the connection with his readers. He notes that in the past three years, since the war began, many readers have responded and commented, indicating that the Torah teachings have become increasingly meaningful to them.
The commentaries in "Starting from Genesis" are imbued with the spirit of the times, encompassing both the national and personal pain alongside the great courage and spirit being displayed. However, Rabbi Oppenheimer emphasizes that the central focus remains on examining the Torah portion, particularly the commentaries of Rashi, to follow the path of the Sages and elevate the mind towards divine knowledge and closeness to God.
Some essays directly address the difficult moments of the war and the loss of students and friends. Rabbi Oppenheimer writes that the current unique period creates a special connection to the Torah, illuminating difficult times with the light of eternal life. He observes a deep internal movement within Israeli society, a thirst and longing that often lacks a name.
The book begins with teachings from the initial hours of the war on Simchat Torah, written amidst great apprehension and uncertainty, and includes reflections on the souls of fallen soldiers and friends. Rabbi Oppenheimer links the significance of this period to the verse "Counsel from afar, faithful, firm" and Zoharic teachings, explaining that faith grows when divine guidance is hidden and past frameworks are insufficient.
He concludes that alongside the darkness and concealment, a new dawn is breaking. He feels that in these years, after the night of Simchat Torah, God is restoring Israel's soul, and a new morning is emerging with abundant divine trust. The recent war, with all its suffering, is seen as part of this distant counsel from God, fostering purity, closeness to God, and a burgeoning spiritual health driven by a deep faith.