New Yeshiva Opens In Yerushalayim

A new home has been created in the heart of Jerusalem for our precious Chabad youth.

Yeshivat Ohr Olam began its first year just six months ago and is b”h thriving with tremendous success. Named after the title written on The Rebbe’s matzeiva, Yeshivat Ohr Olam prides itself in its unique method and goal for its students. Headed by Rabbi Moshe Gitler, his wife Shaina, and Juda Lipkind, the three joined together to create a Zal program where young men can discover and grow into their truest and healthiest selves. Under the auspices of Rabbi Eli Engelson of Shua’s Kollel, they have created a home where tools are given for every individual to discover their inner light and grow physically, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually.

“We strive to show our next generation that Judaism goes beyond what we see, that the connection to Hashem is within us no matter what we look like on the outside. That we have to bring our whole selves, the beautiful parts and not as beautiful parts, into our avodah,” said Juda Lipkind. “Education is defined as “an enlightening experience” – an experience that will assist each boy in reaching his fullest potential in all areas of life,” continued Rabbi Moshe Gitler. “When students are taught of an ever-loving God that has an everlasting confidence in our infinite human capabilities; when they are taught to love and adore the unbound, most special and unique characteristics they all possess; when they are taught that our questions can never demolish truth but are rather the tool through which truth is discovered; when they are taught of a Judaism that speaks truth to their inner hearts — then, and only then, will they be capable to fully exert all of our energy into uncovering the infinite within.”

YOO’s goal is to teach the students to serve Hashem with everything they have — all their skills and abilities — and to leave nothing behind, whether that is singing, basketball, the gym, or the like. Our biggest priority is that each student feels at home. The staff focus on the boys’ emotional and physical wellbeing, and the students feel that they can be heard and understood. Each student is made to feel that they are the “Ohr Olam – light of the world.”

Being situated in Israel gives the boys the opportunity to connect with the land that our Jewish nation has yearned for thousands of years, and for which The Rebbe shed tears over every inch. The boys learn in Chabad of Baka, led by Rabbi Avraham Hendel, who serves as the sweetest role model the students can ask for, and dorm in nearby beautiful apartments. “Living in Israel shows us that a Jew is not black and white, and comes in many colors,” said Uzi Vishedsky, one of the students. “We see evidently how a Jew can show up to davening with a knitted kippah, tan pants and a colored shirt, and still daven for hours. I can still be me and connect to Hashem, and that is what He truly wants.”

To experience the land and history of Israel, as well as have good and healthy fun, the students are taken on weekly trips around Israel, such as Masada, Ein Gedi, the Dead Sea, and Tiveria just to name a few. They experience monthly Shabbatons to incredible cities and beautiful yishuvim like Chevron, Chavat Ma’on, Chavat Arugot, Tzfat and many more. They are also given the opportunity to visit the many kivrei tzadikim spread throughout the land, including Kever Shmuel Hanavi, Mearas Hamachpela, Kever Elazar v’Itamar, Kever Yehoshua and Kalev, and Kever Yosef – all bringing Torah and our past to life.

Seeking staff who are attuned to students’ emotions and intellect, YOO carefully chose teachers who have a genuine sensitivity and care for their students, along with a talent to take words of wisdom and make them accessible for all to understand, relate, and develop from. 

The classes are generally five students or fewer keeping things structured so that lessons are interesting, relevant and personal. Juda Lipkind begins the day with a class set to reframe Judaism and open them up to a real and personal connection to God. Alexander Russell makes Chassidus talk to the heart of each student. Rabbi Moshe Gitler also delivers an incredible Chassidus class, as well as a Chumash class which brings out the human dimension of our ancestors while extracting core Jewish values. Rabbi Melli Hecht helps improve Gemara skills, along with delivering thought provoking classes on subjects ranging from “Mermaids in the Torah” to “The Halachic Response to Terror.” There is also an optional Smicha program offered in two tracks — intermediate and advanced. Aaron Seitler does an incredible job teaching Jewish History and Zevi Slavin has created an amazing class on Mysticism and Jewish Philosophy. The students are privileged to have Rabbi YY Jacobson deliver a weekly class on the subject of their choice. To release some energy and stay healthy, the boys have a nearby gym and are also offered Jiu Jitsu classes by Elazar Fleishmann. The students also participate in Chabad of Baka’s Friendship Circle led by Rebbetzin Nechama Dina Hendel, transforming what they learn into actual love and care for a fellow Jew.

Yeshivat Ohr Olam is aimed at being a program that cares for the individual student who is looking for a more personal program, while still wanting to maintain structure and accountability. The program is catered to boys looking for something out of the mainstream system, while retaining seriousness and diligence.

B’H, YOO’s inaugural year has been successful beyond all expectations. With many of our current alumni returning for another great year and educational program designed to remain small and individualized — spots are very limited. But you can still apply. Just fill out our application form here and our staff will be in touch.

For further information feel free to email us at yeshivatohrolam@gmail.com.