Samson Raphael Hirsch
Samson Raphael Hirsch was a German rabbi best known for leading the Torah im Derech Eretz school of contemporary Orthodox Judaism. Born on June 20, 1808, in Hamburg, Germany, he served as a rabbi in Oldenburg, Emden, and finally Frankfurt am Main, where he established a strong Orthodox Jewish community. Hirsch is often remembered for his staunch opposition to Reform Judaism and his advocacy for a Judaism that engages with the modern world while strictly adhering to halacha.
Hirsch's philosophy articulated a synthesis between traditional Jewish law and the modern world, and he was a prolific writer on Jewish philosophy, law, and education. His works include the nineteen letters on Judaism, which have been influential in shaping Orthodox Jewish thought and practice. His commentary on the Torah and other writings have been widely studied and continue to influence Jewish thought today.
Throughout his career, Hirsch emphasized the importance of Jewish education and the integration of secular knowledge with religious teachings. He argued that Jews should strive to excel in all aspects of life while remaining committed to their religious identity and practices. His legacy continues to impact Jewish communities around the world, particularly in the realm of Modern Orthodox Judaism.