Benjamin Blech

Rabbi Benjamin Blech, born in 1933, is an American Orthodox rabbi and a Professor of Talmud at Yeshiva University, where he has taught since 1966. He also served as the rabbi for Young Israel of Oceanside for 37 years. Beyond his rabbinical duties, Blech has authored numerous books exploring Judaism and Jewish culture, reaching a broad audience with nearly half a million copies sold. He is also a frequent speaker on Jewish topics globally.

His academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts from Yeshiva University, a Master of Arts in social psychology from Columbia University, and rabbinic ordination from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary. Blech's extensive writing career includes contributions to the popular "Idiot's Guide" series. One of his significant works, "Understanding Judaism: The Basics of Deed and Creed," was recognized as a preeminent text on Judaism. His experiences, including a remarkable stock market success and subsequent loss, inspired his book "Taking Stock: A Spiritual Guide to Rising Above Life's Financial Ups and Downs." Blech also holds the distinction of being among the first rabbis to publicly bless a pope, Pope John Paul II, in 2005.

Benjamin Blech's long-standing dedication to Jewish scholarship and spiritual leadership is evident in his extensive career. Since 1966, he has been a Professor of Talmud at Yeshiva University, shaping the minds of students in Jewish law and thought. Prior to this, he served as the rabbi of Young Israel of Oceanside for 37 years, providing spiritual guidance to his congregation. His educational journey laid a strong foundation for his multifaceted career, encompassing a Bachelor of Arts from Yeshiva University, a Master of Arts in social psychology from Columbia University, and rabbinic ordination from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary. This academic rigor informs his approach to both teaching and writing.

Blech has authored fourteen books, with total sales approaching half a million copies, demonstrating his significant impact on the dissemination of Jewish knowledge. His work "Understanding Judaism: The Basics of Deed and Creed" was lauded by the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations as the best book on Judaism of its generation. This book, along with a companion video, has become a foundational text for study groups in synagogues and universities across the United States. He also contributed to the "Complete Idiot's Guide" series, making complex subjects accessible to a wider readership. His writings often delve into the deeper meanings of Jewish concepts, words, and history, making them valuable resources for both scholars and the general public.

Blech's life experiences have often served as inspiration for his writings, offering spiritual perspectives on worldly matters. A notable instance involved his successful stock market investment, which grew significantly before a substantial loss, leading him to write "Taking Stock: A Spiritual Guide to Rising Above Life's Financial Ups and Downs." This book reflects on navigating financial challenges with a spiritual framework. His unique experiences also include being invited by the Vatican to bless Pope John Paul II in 2005, an event that highlighted interfaith recognition. Furthermore, a serious health diagnosis in 2010, from which he unexpectedly recovered, further shaped his views on life and faith.