Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, and later educated in Baltimore’s public schools, young Mordechai Gifter’s bar mitzvah was marked by knowing just one blatt of Gemara. Yet, this seemingly modest beginning belied a future as one of the most renowned Torah scholars and revered leaders of the 20th century: Harav Mordechai Gifter, Rosh Yeshivah of Telz. Was this upbringing a sign of a Jewishly deprived American youth? Absolutely not, as Rabbi Yechiel Spero masterfully illustrates in his biography, painting a warm and insightful portrait of this extraordinary figure.
Rabbi Spero, acclaimed for his “Touched by . . . ” series, surpasses his previous works in this biography, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the life of Rav Gifter. For Rav Gifter, every moment dedicated to Torah study was an invaluable gift. His relentless pursuit and mastery of Torah were truly exceptional. Throughout his life, he embodied the spirit of his mentors and the formative years spent at the Telz Yeshivah in Lithuania. A captivating orator, he possessed the rare ability to move audiences to tears and ignite within them a passion for spiritual growth. His sense of responsibility was immense, encompassing the yeshivah, the wider community, and every individual who sought his guidance, regardless of their stature. Above all, Rav Gifter’s profound love for Torah permeated every aspect of his being. It was his life’s purpose, and his infectious enthusiasm for learning inspired countless students, shaping them into distinguished Torah scholars in his likeness.
Rav Gifter’s influence extended to the greatest Torah sages of his time, and he stood as a fearless defender of Torah truth in intellectual discourse. Yet, his greatness was also reflected in his compassion and understanding. He extended warmth to the uninitiated, such as the US Navy veteran who unexpectedly found himself at Telz, and the college student seeking a meaningful Orthodox prayer experience. Students were deeply impressed by his intensity, yet equally touched by his genuine care and affection.
He modestly defined himself as a “simple melamed,” a teacher. However, this self-description understates his profound impact. His true mission was to master the entirety of Torah and transmit its grandeur to future generations. In this mission, he undeniably excelled, becoming a true gifter of Torah knowledge.
This biography is richly enhanced with illustrations, including previously unpublished photographs, offering a visual journey through Rav Gifter’s life. More than just a historical account, the book is interwoven with Rav Gifter’s ideals, teachings, perspectives, and classic speeches, presented in his own powerful words.
A poignant anecdote reveals a teenage Rav Gifter adorning his wall with images of Torah giants, leaving one frame empty with the compelling question: “What about you?” The young man from Portsmouth answered this call through his remarkable life. Reading his story is not just an enriching experience; it is an elevation of one’s own aspirations, inspiring readers to strive for greatness in their own lives, emulating the legacy of this incredible gifter of Torah.
