Top Rabbi Declares 'Ba'al Teshuvah' Label Divisive, Calls Returnees 'One of Us'
Translated & summarized from JDN by baba
Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch, a leading Jewish law decisor, declared that the term "ba'al teshuvah" is divisive and should not be used. He stated that individuals returning to religious observance are "exactly like us" and should be considered equal to all other Jews. The rabbi's comments were made during a meeting with Rabbi Yaakov David Nakash in Jerusalem and aimed to foster greater inclusion and eliminate perceived divisions within the Jewish community.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch stated the term 'ba'al teshuvah' creates division and should not be used.
- He asserted that Jews returning to religious observance are "exactly like us."
- Sternbuch argued the label incorrectly divides people and creates a false sense of distance.
- The comments were made during a meeting with Rabbi Yaakov David Nakash in Jerusalem.
- The rabbi emphasized the need for inclusion and love for all Jews returning to tradition.
Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch, a leading decisor of Jewish law, stated emphatically that the term "ba'al teshuvah" (one who returns to religious observance) should not be used, as it creates an unnecessary division among Jews. During a visit from Rabbi Yaakov David Nakash, the rabbi of the "Keter Torah" community in Mexico, to Sternbuch's home in Jerusalem's Har Nof neighborhood, the discussion turned to the spiritual revival of Jews worldwide.
When someone present used the term "ba'alei teshuvah," Rabbi Sternbuch immediately and forcefully rejected it. "For me, the title 'ba'alei teshuvah' does not exist, because it divides them into another category. For me, they are equal to everyone!" he declared.
Sternbuch elaborated that upon returning to Jewish tradition, these individuals are "exactly like us." He explained that labeling them as "ba'alei teshuvah" is disrespectful and creates a false sense of distance, when in reality, they are fully part of the community. "When you call it 'ba'al teshuvah,' you divide these people from others, and that is not good," he stated, emphasizing the need for deep appreciation and love for every Jew who returns to God without any barriers.
The remarks left a strong impression on those present, highlighting the great esteem and affection religious leaders hold for Jews returning to their roots.
