Head of Tekoa Yeshiva Explains Refusal to Align Politically to Preserve Inclusivity
Rabbi Michal Falk, head of the Tekoa Yeshiva, discussed in a Channel 7 podcast the institution's deliberate choice to avoid political party affiliations, a principle rooted in the legacy of its founder, Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz. Falk emphasized that this stance aims to keep the yeshiva open and relevant to all Jews, regardless of background or political views. He recalled how Steinsaltzatz explicitly rejected political endorsements, even amid pressure during election seasons, to maintain the yeshiva as a unifying spiritual home.
Rabbi Falk explained that political alignment often alienates segments of the community, which contradicts the yeshiva's mission to engage Jews from diverse sectors, including secular kibbutzim and ultra-Orthodox homes. He noted that this approach comes with practical costs, such as reduced political support, but it fosters a deeper responsibility toward all Jews. The yeshiva encourages its rabbis to express personal views but not on behalf of the institution, preserving a broad inclusivity.
The yeshiva's educational philosophy, shaped by Steinsaltzatz, focuses on cultivating well-rounded scholars with a broad spiritual and intellectual foundation. Students study Talmud, halacha, and Jewish texts deeply, progressing from basic understanding to advanced commentaries. Falk highlighted the importance of personal authenticity and spiritual freedom grounded in strong commitment to Torah and fear of God.
Falk also reflected on the yeshiva's outreach efforts, including global Jewish community engagement and a "Shelevet" initiative connecting students with Jews worldwide via Zoom study sessions. He recounted the late Yaniv Pleishman, a former student and teacher who was killed in military service, underscoring the yeshiva's connection to Israel's broader societal challenges.
Regarding the yeshiva's identity, Falk rejected narrow labels like "Hasidic" or "neo-Hasidic," emphasizing the diversity within Hasidism and the yeshiva's focus on truthfulness and sincerity. He recalled Steinsaltzatz's close relationship with the Lubavitcher Rebbe but noted the yeshiva never sought to become a Chabad institution. The founding of the yeshiva emerged from a group of students inspired by Steinsaltzatz's unique worldview and desire to create a spiritual home that balances deep learning with universal Jewish responsibility.
