Growing up as a Jew in the USA, anything I ever heard about Judaism was about the "whats" of Judaism and the "hows" of Judaism – what to do and how to do it. But the "whys" of Judaism were always left out. "Why should I believe Judaism to be true?" and "Why should Judaism make a difference in my life?" were questions that were constantly overlooked, never receiving full or satisfactory answers. 

This always bothered me. 

So when I had the opportunity, I wanted to look into the foundational beliefs of Judaism for myself. I wanted to see if there was a case to be made for the authenticity of Judaism. 

My search took me to Israel to investigate and elucidate the philosophical tenets of Jewish belief. “Why should I believe in God?” “Why should I believe God gave the Torah?”

In Jerusalem, I was surprised to come across thought-out and reasonable approaches to the roots and truths of Judaism... and this led me to develop a stronger passion and commitment towards it in my life.

As the "whys" were met with solid responses, my pursuit evolved from philosophical questions to spiritual inquiries. I wanted to understand the deeper reasons behind why we do what we do. This led me to the teachings of deeper Jewish wisdom, such as Chassidus and Kabbalah, which opened the door to a fuller picture and more meaningful practice of Torah and Jewish life. 

Since then, I've been privileged to share and disseminate the "whys" of Judaism – both philosophical and spiritual – to a wide and varied international audience by bringing down, clarifying and packaging these teachings in a way that is accessible, relevant and motivational for Jews of all levels of Jewish background, observance, and education. 

I have been blessed to author numerous books that have helped to answer questions, debunk misconceptions and open thousands of hearts and minds of wandering and wondering Jews.  "Jewish By Choice" and "The Case For Judaism" went on to become #1 Best Sellers, and numerous other works have become popular and continue to make a difference. 

Currently, I live with my family in the Old City of Jerusalem, where my wife and I spend the majority of our time teaching, mentoring, writing, counselling, learning, hosting, and always looking for new, creative and innovative ways to spread the light of Torah and Judaism far and wide.

To join my email list or daily WhatsApp group,or for any questions, feedback, or speaking inquiries, email elithejew@gmail.com

Have a blessed day,
 
Eliyahu Yaakov Deutsch

The Largest Jewish Torah Learning Project in Southeast United States! Now with classes being uploaded weekly on SoundCloud! All flavors of Judaism under one roof. Like our page on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/LighthouseProjectMiami/ and follow all of our upcoming events there. Or join our whatsapp/text groups through 305-747-9158

Rabbi Eliyahu Yaakov Deutsch is following