Eliyahu Essas

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Rabbi Eliyahu Essas (Russian: Илья Эссас; born 1946) is a notable former leader of Soviet Jewry and one of the founders of Baal Teshuva movement in former Soviet Union. Currently lives in Jerusalem, Israel.

[edit] Refusnik

In 1973 he applied to Soviet Authorities to make Aliyah to Israel. He was refused on the grounds of his wife's having a sensitive job.

While living in Moscow, Essas spent his time building Orthodox Jewish Community. He created a network of Torah studies, children underground education, and summer camps.

In January 1986, after political deals between Edgar Bronfman, Sr, Chairman of World Jewish Congress, and Soviet Authorities, Essas family moved to Israel.

[edit] Recent Activity

Rabbi Essas currently work for Aish Hatorah in Jerusalem, Israel and is a founder of Jewish Russian website: http://www.evrey.com.

[edit] Bibliography

  • Zakon, Miriam, Silent Revolution - Story of Rabbi Eliyahu Essas and Russian Torah Network ISBN: 0-89906-105-2