New World Jewish Pilgrims ‘Struggle With God’ in the Old City — Ari David Blaff
Summary
This episode explores the journey of secular Jews who return to Orthodox faith through Aish HaTorah, a yeshiva in Jerusalem’s Old City. It profiles Rabbi Dove Bear Cohen, a former Buddhist and martial artist, alongside students like Michael Mirsky and Eliahu Dahan, who seek spiritual depth beyond social media and materialism. The story highlights how these "New World" pilgrims use rational inquiry and Talmudic study to navigate modern distractions, finding that the traditional Jewish concept of "struggling with God" provides a meaningful framework for life.
Topics discussed
Introduction and article context
Atmosphere of the Old City during holidays
History and mission of Aish Hatorah
Aish vs Chabad: attracting secular Jews
Dove Bear Cohen's background and restlessness
Cohen's turn to Eastern philosophy
Six years backpacking through Asia
Finding truth in Israel and rational faith
Interview setting and Cohen's demeanor
Cohen's studies in Safed and conversion
Typical student journeys and Rabbi Glazer
Michael Mirsky's background and trip to Israel
Mirsky's experience at Aish and Talmud
Mirsky as family authority and digital detox
Cohen's website and evidence-based approach
Class on values and the emptiness of secular life
Eliahu Dahan on materialism and biblical wisdom
Subconscious changes and social media critique
Inside the yeshiva study hall
Struggling with God and the meaning of Israel
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