Review of Dorash Dovid on Moadim Elul-Purim, By Rav Dovid Hofstedter, Publisher and Distributor: Israel Book Shop
The Moadim, the Jewish holidays, are the highlights of the Jewish year. Often we are so involved in the physical and logistical preparations for the holidays that we lack the wherewithal to contemplate the many questions on the Moadim that are in the back of our minds. The newest handsome two volume English edition of Dorash Dovid provides answers that leave the reader with a more comprehensive understanding of each Yom Tov.
Every maamar in Dorash Dovid begins with several queries, then develops an indepth approach, opening new vistas that enable one to truly grasp the messages that the Torah and our Sages impart.
In this unique work, Rav Dovid Hofstedter, nasi of the internationally acclaimed Dirshu Torah organization, analyzes the opportune times of Elul and the Yamim Noraim. He provides deep and relevant insights into the season of teshuva and the Yamim Tovim of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur as well as the joyous holidays of Sukkos, Shemini Atzeres, Chanukah and Purim. In addition, he presents indepth lessons on Tu B’Shevat and the Four Parshiyos. Virtually every aspect of each of these special times is covered extensively, with a focus on discerning each Yom Tov’s message. This is not a sefer of allegorical thoughts; rather, it can be described as “the thinking person’s sefer on the moadim.
”Every maamar concludes with a practical lesson that is applicable to everyday life.
Dorash Dovid is solidly based on the foundations put forth by the great Rishonim and Acharonim. Its objective is to clarify primary concepts and commentaries related to the moadim and to illuminate its messages.
Especially at this time of the year as the Yomim Noraim approach, Dorash Dovid on Moadim is a sefer that will give deeper meaning to the entire season from Elul through Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur and beyond. It is a sefer that has the power to infuse one’s Yomim Noraim with profound inspiration.
It will answer many difficulties you have always had; it will ask many questions that you will wonder why you never thought of yourself. If you are looking for a stimulating and meaningful Yomim Noraim season, this is the sefer for you!
With his latest contribution to the world of Jewish thought, Rav Hofstedter has earned the thanks of thinking Jews the world over.
By Uriel Greenwood
