Rabbi Shear Yashuv Cohen: Between War and Peace [Hardcover]

Although mainly known as the chief rabbi of Haifa, Rabbi Shear Yashuv Cohen, born in the year 1927, has lived an intriguing life, playing an important role in the establishment of the state of Israel. As the son of Rabbi David Cohen (1887-1972), the legendary Nazirite of Jerusalem, Rabbi Cohen grew up among some of Israel’s greatest rabbis. Destined to become a Nazirite until the age of sixteen, Rabbi Shear Yashuv Cohen studied under the influence of Rav Kook. During the 1948 War of Independence, Rabbi Cohen fought to defend the Old City of Jerusalem, until he was severely wounded and taken to Jordan as a prisoner of war. After his return he became Chief Rabbi of the Israel Air Force, and then governed as the Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem with Teddy Kollek. Rabbi Cohen served as the Chief Rabbi of Haifa and President of their rabbinical courts for 36 years. The details of his achievements and captivating life in this biography are further encapsulated in excerpts of his diary, which include vivid details of the battles he fought in and his imprisonment in Jordan.

"He exemplifies a real possibility and a real hope for the world in which we live . . . the rabbi will be remembered in Israel, as a leading figure in and after the State's foundation." —James Macintyre, christiantoday.com

"Rabbi Shear Yashuv Cohen: Between War and Peaceis an informed, comprehensive, and ultimately inspiring read from beginning to end and very highly recommended for personal reading lists, as well as community and academic library collections." —Midwest Book Review

"In sum, this is not your 'average' rabbinical biography, but rather a very comprehensive treatment of one of Israel’s greatest personalities — with a lot of interesting Israeli history thrown in for good measure. Highly recommended." —Professor Sam Lehman-Wilzig, jewishlinknj.com

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