Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein’s Commentary


RYE in a white button up seated next to John French.

Walk with the Wise

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein  |  January 3, 2018
The new year is a time of new beginnings – and a time of endings. I was reminded of that truth earlier this week when I learned of the death of my dear friend, John French, who served as chairman of The Fellowship's board for many years, providing a sure foundation with his faith and his leadership. As 2018 begins, I pray that you might have someone in your life with such friendship and wisdom.
Little boy lighting candles on the menorah for Hanukkah.

The Season of Light and Miracles

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein  |  December 13, 2017
Even as we recognize that we live in a troubled world, we revel in God's light and hold fast to His miracles as precious signs that He loves and cares about his children.
Wide image of the landscape of Jerusalem.

Jerusalem, Israel's Historic and Spiritual Capital

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein  |  December 6, 2017
The U.S. just made history by announcing that it recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. This bold and courageous move was long overdue, and especially significant coming from Israel's closest ally. As we rejoice in this news, let us also pray that Israel's people and all who defend them will be protected.
Young boy smiling into the camera while holding the Israeli flag.

The Nation of Israel Lives!

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein  |  November 30, 2017
This week marked the 70th anniversary of United Nations Resolution 181, which offered the Jewish people an opportunity to reclaim their historic and biblical homeland. Despite the fact that Israel's Arab neighbors rejected the resolution, the modern state of Israel was formed and will continue to prosper, thanks to God's protective hand over His people.
Rabbi Eckstein praying at the Western Wall.

A Time to Give Thanks to God

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein  |  November 21, 2017
When President Abraham Lincoln issued the proclamation that created Thanksgiving, the nation he led was in the midst of the bloodiest conflict in its history. And yet, he told his countrymen to set aside time to thank "our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens." It is an example we would all do well to follow, in good times and bad – and not just on Thanksgiving, but every day.
RYE seated with members of Joyous Community Church.

God's People, Together in Unity

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein  |  November 16, 2017
Rabbi Eckstein visited the Fellowship office in South Korea and spoke at churches there, fellowshipping with like-minded, like-hearted people – united by a shared faith in God.
Hands in prayer position while holding a small United States flag.

In the Face of Evil, God Is Our Refuge and Strength

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein  |  November 8, 2017
In a world filled with so much noise and constant change, people attend church for solace, comfort, and reassurance, which is what makes last Sunday's attack on a church in Texas uniquely hideous and appalling. It also highlights how important it is that we, Jews and Christians, stand together in solidarity.
Policemen in a line holding guns.

Vigilance, Moral Clarity, and Prayer

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein  |  November 2, 2017
Cars and trucks have become weapons of choice for terrorists, as we have seen in Israel, in Europe – and now, in New York City. How is it possible to guard against a crazed driver who, with just the slightest turn of his steering wheel, can turn his car into a weapon?
Rabbi Eckstein handing an elderly woman a bouquet of flowers while amongst a crowd of people celebrating.

Investing in Israel's Future

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein  |  October 26, 2017
My dear friend Ariel Sharon once told me that the three most important things we can do for Israel are: "aliyah, aliyah, aliyah." He recognized a fundamental truth: Not only does bringing Jewish immigrants to their biblical homeland save lives, it gives the Jewish state a brighter and better
Yechiel in a suit and little girl with winter hat standing in front of a plane for Aliyah

From the Four Corners of the Earth

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein  |  October 19, 2017
Next week, Israel celebrates the immigrants who have made her the healthy, vibrant Jewish state she is today. And we at The Fellowship celebrate our supporters who for 25 years have given hope to nearly 750,000 Jews in need.
The Torah being held up over everyone at the Western Wall.

The Foundation of Our Faith

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein  |  October 10, 2017
The joyous holiday of Simchat Torah - which means 'rejoicing in the Torah' - demonstrates our love for God's Word, which comforts us with its truths and its promise that He is always with us.
Large wooden box in the street

Only God to Depend On

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein  |  October 3, 2017
The festival of Sukkot, also called the Feast of Tabernacles, reminds us that despite all we do, our homes, our safety, and our health ultimately come from God. So let us be filled with fresh gratitude for His permanence and shelter in our world that is ever-changing, chaotic, and at times filled with great sorrow.

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