Honey From The Rock
Join host Bill Lipsey for inspiring conversations with Israel's most innovative spiritual leaders and entrepreneurs. Discover how the Honey Foundation is reshaping Israeli society by empowering diverse Jewish expression and building meaningful communities. From groundbreaking rabbis to community changemakers, each episode explores how spiritual entrepreneurship is creating a more open, connected Israel—for the benefit of Jews everywhere.
Honey From The Rock
Seekers: From Kibbutz to Calling
## Episode Summary
In this profound journey of spiritual exploration, Rabbi Elisha Wolfin traces an extraordinary path from a secular kibbutz upbringing to becoming a transformative spiritual leader. Navigating through diverse philosophical traditions—including Buddhism, Daoism, and Sufism—and wrestling with his religious grandmother's teachings, Rabbi Elisha emerges as a bridge-builder between secular and spiritual worlds. His story is a testament to the power of open-minded seeking, the depth of Jewish wisdom, and the importance of community in reconnecting with one's roots and cultural heritage.
## Guest: Rabbi Elisha Wolfin
**Founding Member and Leader of Kehillat Veahavta in Zichron Yaakov**
### Kehillat Veahavta: A Community Profile
- Founded in 2003 by eight families
- Seeks to create a welcoming, egalitarian synagogue
- Currently comprises 220 member households
- Hosts 120 Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebrations annually
- Reaches over 16,000 people through diverse community activities
### Episode Highlights
- **Spiritual Transformation**: Rabbi Elisha shares his profound journey from a secular kibbutz background to becoming a rabbi
- **Community Building**: Insights into creating an inclusive Jewish spiritual community
- **Interfaith Exploration**:
- Experiences with Buddhism, Daoism, and Sufism
- Meaningful arguments with his religious grandmother
- Transformative meeting with the Dalai Lama while working at Hillel
### Key Themes
- The evolution of Jewish community in Israel
- Importance of tolerance, love, and acceptance in spiritual practice
- Bridging secular and religious Jewish experiences
- Reaching out to non-observant Israeli families
### About the Guest
Ordained in 2001, Rabbi Elisha Wolfin identifies himself as a spiritual seeker, bridging multiple philosophical and religious traditions. As a founding member of Kehillat Veahavta, he embodies a nuanced, intellectually curious approach to faith and community.
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This podcast was produced and edited by thepodwaves.com