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On May 16-17, Rabbi Dr. Sharon Shalom, founder and director of Ono Academic College’s International Center for the Study of Ethiopian Jewry, served as the Scholar-in-Residence at the Beth Aharon Synagogue (HIR) in Riverdale, NY. Over the course of the Friday and Shabbat, he delivered a series of compelling lectures that illuminated his personal journey, the traditions of Ethiopian Jewry, and their intersection with broader Jewish life.
During Shabbat services he presented a lecture entitled, “On Parasha and Beyond,” where he offered insightful commentary on the weekly Torah portion, weaving in perspectives from Ethiopian Jewish traditions to enrich the congregation’s understanding.
Later, he shared his remarkable personal story in a talk entitled “The Journey That Has Not Finished: From a Shepherd in Ethiopia to a Community Rabbi of Holocaust Survivors in Kiryat Gat.” The lecture traced his extraordinary path from rural Ethiopia to becoming a spiritual leader in Israel, highlighting themes of resilience, faith, and community-building that resonated deeply with attendees.
That evening at 7:45 PM, Rabbi Dr. Shalom concluded with “Halacha, Minhag, Masoret in the Ethiopian Community,” a lecture exploring the unique legal, customary, and traditional practices of Beta Israel. Before an audience of about 80 participants, he elucidated how these practices both align with and enrich broader Jewish observance, fostering a lively discussion among congregants.
Throughout his visit, Rabbi Dr. Shalom engaged with Beth Aharon’s community, meeting with local spiritual leaders to discuss shared challenges and opportunities in Jewish education and outreach. His talks drew significant attendance, with congregants praising his ability to connect personal narrative with scholarly depth. In his evening lecture, Rabbi Dr. Shalom emphasized the importance of preserving Ethiopian Jewish traditions, noting their contributions to the diversity of Jewish practice.
Rabbi Dr. Shalom’s visit left a lasting impact on Beth Aharon, with attendees inspired by his journey and the rich heritage of Ethiopian Jewry. His ability to bridge personal experience with universal Jewish themes underscored the vibrancy of the global Jewish community.
