Rabbi Eliyahu Dessler
Rabbi Eliyahu Eliezer Dessler was born in 1892 in Lithuania and is renowned as a prominent Jewish thinker and philosopher of the 20th century. He is best known for his writings on Jewish ethics and philosophy, collected in the multi-volume work 'Michtav me-Eliyahu' (translated as 'Strive for Truth'). Rabbi Dessler's teachings emphasize the internal struggles between the material and spiritual worlds and the importance of personal growth and ethical living.
Rabbi Dessler spent the early part of his career in Lithuania and later moved to the United Kingdom during World War II, where he served as the spiritual leader at the Gateshead Jewish Academy. His influence extended beyond his immediate community, impacting Jewish thought internationally through his students and writings.
In 1948, Rabbi Dessler moved to Israel and became the Mashgiach Ruchani (spiritual supervisor) of the Ponevezh Yeshiva in Bnei Brak. There, he continued his educational and spiritual work until his death in 1953. His philosophical works continue to inspire and influence Jewish thought and practice around the world.