Top Rabbi Declares "Baal Teshuva" Label Discriminatory
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch declared that the term "Baal Teshuva" is discriminatory and should not be used. He stated that individuals returning to religious observance are "exactly like us" and should not be categorized separately. The comments were made during a meeting with Rabbi Yaakov David Nakash in Jerusalem. Rabbi Sternbuch believes the label creates divisions and implies distance, when in fact, these individuals are fully part of the community.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch stated the term "Baal Teshuva" is discriminatory and should not be used.
- He asserted that individuals returning to religious observance are "exactly like us."
- Rabbi Sternbuch believes the label creates divisions and implies distance.
- The comments were made during a meeting with Rabbi Yaakov David Nakash in Jerusalem.
- He emphasized that these individuals are fully part of the community.
Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch, a prominent Halachic decisor, stated during a recent visit from Rabbi Yaakov David Nakash, head of the Keter Torah community in Mexico, that he does not recognize the term "Baal Teshuva" (one who returns to religious observance). Rabbi Sternbuch asserted that individuals who return to their roots are "exactly like us" and should not be categorized separately. He explained that using such labels creates divisions and implies these individuals were once distant, when in reality, they are fully part of the community.
The discussion, which took place at Rabbi Sternbuch's residence in Jerusalem's Har Nof neighborhood, focused on the state of diaspora Jewry and the growth of Torah study. The conversation also touched upon the significant increase in Jews returning to their heritage, both in Israel and globally. The impactful moment occurred when someone present used the term "Baalei Teshuva," prompting Rabbi Sternbuch's firm response.
Rabbi Sternbuch emphasized that labeling someone a "Baal Teshuva" is disrespectful and inaccurate, as it suggests they are separate from the community. He believes that upon returning to Torah observance, they are inherently equal to all other observant Jews. His remarks left a strong impression on those present, highlighting the deep respect and love religious leaders have for every Jew returning to their faith, without any barriers.
