Reflections by Shlomo Elkan
Personal reflections on Jewish life, memory, teshuva, and the experiences that continue to shape how I see the world.
Stay in Touch
We moved to Jerusalem, but I didn't want to leave everyone behind. A reflection on old friends, unexpected messages, and the hesitation we sometimes feel before reaching out.
Black, White, and a Touch of Olive Green
Walking to the bus stop in my usual Chabad black and white, I hugged my daughter goodbye in her IDF uniform. The picture made me smile. A little later, on a Jerusalem bus, I found myself thinking about belonging, the labels we give one another, and how much they leave out.
On the Precipice
Three months into life in Jerusalem, the quiet month of Cheshvan is bringing unexpected reasons to celebrate. The children are finding their place, exciting possibilities are taking shape for Devorah, and Eitzah is beginning to grow. A reflection on Reb Hillel Paritcher, new beginnings, and the excitement of what lies ahead.
Sunday School
Nearly three months into life in Jerusalem, I'm still having trouble with Sundays. But adjusting to a new weekly rhythm has me thinking about the habits we take for granted, the limitations we place on ourselves, and a fascinating teaching from Tanya about the importance of going just one step beyond what's familiar.
Bound Together
After many years on shlichus, I have come to recognize how deeply loneliness affected me, even while I was constantly surrounded by people. A Sukkos filled with unexpected hugs, singing, and friendship helped me understand the Arba Minim in a new way: even the person who brings people together needs to be gathered in.
Finding Space, Part I: Entering Yom Kippur
On Kol Nidrei night in Jerusalem, the streets filled with people dressed in white, and our synagogue had barely an inch of space to spare. Yet somewhere in that crowded room, surrounded by family, friends, and strangers, I found an unexpected kind of space: room to pray as part of something larger.
Heavy Reading
After making Aliyah, I discovered that unpacking my books meant sorting through far more than a library. Each volume carried memories of another place, another season, and the person I was when I first opened it.
The Jerusalem Story They Don’t Tell You: Welcome Home
An Arab nurse welcomes a new Jewish immigrant home in a Jerusalem emergency room. A small act of kindness complicates the familiar stories we tell about this city.
Man Dancing & Group Singing
A memory from my wedding returns as singing, dancing, and honest conversations help Jerusalem become a community. One month after our move, I’m thinking about how belonging takes shape.
Chassidus and Iran: How Memory Rebuilds the Future
An evening with Iranian activists and Israelis in Jerusalem prompts thoughts about exile, memory, and renewal, alongside a conversation about how Chassidic learning can deepen everyday life.