Top Rabbi Sternbuch Rejects 'Ba'alei Teshuvah' Label, Calls It 'Insolence'
Translated & summarized from Behadrei Haredim by baba
Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch, a leading Halachic decisor, declared that the term 'Ba'alei Teshuvah' is inappropriate and divisive. During a meeting with Rabbi Yaakov David Nakash of Mexico, Sternbuch stated that individuals returning to religious observance are "completely ours" and should not be categorized separately. He called the label "insolence and audacity," emphasizing their full belonging within the Jewish community.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch rejected the term 'Ba'alei Teshuvah,' calling it divisive.
- Sternbuch stated that those returning to religious observance are "completely ours."
- He described the use of the term as "insolence and audacity."
- The rabbi emphasized that such individuals are equal to everyone else.
- The remarks were made during a meeting with Rabbi Yaakov David Nakash in Jerusalem.
Rabbi Moshe Sternbuch, a prominent Halachic decisor, strongly rejected the term 'Ba'alei Teshuvah' (those who return to religious observance) during a recent visit from Rabbi Yaakov David Nakash, the rabbi of the Keter Torah community in Mexico. The meeting, held in Rabbi Sternbuch's Jerusalem home, focused on the state of global Jewry and the growth of Torah study.
During the discussion about Jews returning to their roots, one participant used the term 'Ba'alei Teshuvah.' Rabbi Sternbuch immediately and emphatically stated that he does not recognize this designation, explaining that it creates a separate category for these individuals. He asserted that in his view, they are equal to everyone else.
"I don't want to hear the word 'Ba'alei Teshuvah,' I have no such title, because the moment he returns to the Torah, he is exactly like us," Rabbi Sternbuch declared. He elaborated that labeling someone as such is "insolence and audacity," implying they were distant when in reality, they are "completely ours." He stressed that such distinctions are detrimental.
The rabbi's remarks, emphasizing love and acceptance for all Jews returning to their heritage without division, left a strong impression on those present.
