The Rebbetzin: The Story of Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis Her life, vision, legacy

by Nachman Seltzer

Esther Jungreis was a young Holocaust survivor who became a friend, advisor, confidante, Torah teacher and often even a surrogate mother to singles and families, prime ministers, presidents and prisoners, and soldiers and spiritual seekers throughout the world. A pioneer in Jewish outreach and the founder of Hineni, she made history in Madison Square Garden, where she proved that Torah could interest, engage, and energize all Jews. Through her newspaper columns, television programs, bestselling books, and standing-room-only speeches, she ignited the pintele Yid that lies within every Jew. She shared her passion for Torah and Jewish continuity and enriched the lives of millions throughout the world. She was The Rebbetzin -- Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis and this is her unforgettable and inspiring story. Born in Szeged, Hungary, Esther Jungreis descended from a great rabbinic dynasty that traced its lineage back to the days of King David. Having survived the Holocaust, she and her husband, Rabbi Meshulem Jungreis, were determined to devote their lives to combatting the spiritual holocaust of assimilation. Her life was infused with a giant spirit, and a fierce love for every Jew. She brought to Jews the world over a rare and wonderful the warmth and caring of a Jewish mother (she made literally hundreds of shidduchim!), combined with the excitement and inspiration that only a truly gifted and dynamic teacher can share. The Rebbetzin was written by Rabbi Nachman Seltzer, one of the Jewish world s premiere authors, who interviewed close to one hundred people family, shul members, students, neighbors, and many others whose souls she touched, who shared her devotion to Klal Yisrael. In these stories he vividly captures the life of one of the twentieth century s most fascinating, charismatic and spiritually inspiring Jewish personalities. The Rebbetzin is an absorbing and fascinating book to read. But it guides us to look to the future with a renewed sense of commitment, and to build upon the Rebbetzin s accomplishments and perpetuate her inspiring legacy.

Genres: Jewish

650 pages, Hardcover

Published March 2, 2020

Reviews

[Naomi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was incredible and life changing. I found out about the rebbetzin because she was featured in a different book I read called "From their daughter's hearts 2"- her particular section in the book really resonated with me so I searched for more and found out my friend had this biography on her so I decided ti give it a try. Despire the book being very long this book is an emotional rollercoaster that speeds by and by the end of it you feel as if you know the rebbitzen and her family so well- almost as if you were there to witness the beautiful things that were written. This book inspired me so deeply and personally to start making changes to my lifestyle and mindset and not because it was harsh or judgmental but rather because it was filled with love and honesty and everything ths rebbetzin stood for. Rabbi N Selzter did a great job carrying on the rebbitzins legacy and continuing her mission to touch souls and bring them back to their maker. BH for this book I will definitely be buying my own copy and re-reading it.

[Leah G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great stories, gives context to Rebbetzin jungreis's life and helps you understand who she was and what she accomplished. Lots of history of the American jewish worldview and history in the 70s-90s that was new to me. It's astonishing how she had so much energy and yet had the warmth of a bubby. She was given the gift to reach the hearts of everyone she met, and she didn't waste it.

This book is definitely an enjoyable, inspiring read.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a captivating biography of a woman who influenced so many. I'd never heard of Esther Jungreis at the time when she stepped on to a stage at Madison Square Garden and told the audience that they are Jews. She went on to start the Hineni organization that was one of the earlier kiruv organizations. I went to Hineni once or twice and spoke to the Rebbetzin at one. I also heard her speak several times at Lincoln Square Synagogue back when there was a Wednesday evening lecture series. What stood out was her self confidence, her connection to her ancestral heritage, her stylishness, and her caring for everyone. This book brings all those aspects together, interspersed with remembrances from many people whose lives were influenced by her guidance and care. Nachman Seltzer did a highly commendable job, and he continues to be one of the best writers in the genre of biographies of Jewish leaders. Well worth reading to learn about the power of one woman who truly believed in her ability to stem the tide of assimilation that she discovered in America after having survived the Holocaust.

[Eli Gray · Rating 1 out of 5]

Reads like a 3rd grade fairy tale book. Filled with hyperbole that cheapens the stories being told. Incredibly repetitive. Very little substance. Highly disappointing.

[Patricia Kadoche · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Rebbetzin was an incredible tzadeket-wow!! What a beautiful legacy she leaves us!!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent. Very well written.