February 10, 2025

Seekers: From Kibbutz to Calling

44 minutes

## 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.