Kalman Ber

Rabbi Kalman Ber is recognized for his efforts to connect diverse Jewish communities. Born in Tel Aviv, Rabbi Ber is part of a notable rabbinic lineage, which includes Rabbi Akiva Eiger and Hasidic leaders from the Izhbitza-Radzin dynasty. His education began at Bnei Akiva Yeshiva in Netanya, and he later continued at Kerem Yeshiva in Yavneh, where he held the role of senior lecturer.

As Chief Rabbi of Netanya, a position he held before his national appointment, Rabbi Ber gained support from both Haredi and Religious Zionist communities. His approach included establishing a multi-tiered Kashrut certification system to accommodate various levels of observance. This system aimed to provide reliable options for strictly observant and more leniently observant individuals, enhancing the rabbinate’s relevance within Netanya’s diverse population.

Rabbi Ber’s leadership is influenced by the teachings of Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook, a founding figure in Religious Zionist thought, who promoted unity within Jewish observance. Rabbi Ber often references Rabbi Kook’s philosophy, emphasizing that the rabbinate’s role is to engage with all facets of the Jewish people. His involvement with Tzohar, a Religious Zionist rabbinic organization, and his participation in inter-communal events are consistent with this approach, supporting an environment where differing Jewish perspectives are acknowledged.

Rabbi Ber was elected Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi of Israel on October 31, 2024, after a closely contested election with Rabbi Micha Halevi, the Chief Rabbi of Petah Tikva. His election saw backing from prominent Haredi factions, including United Torah Judaism (UTJ) and Religious Zionist leaders, illustrating his acceptance across different communities. Observers view his appointment as a step toward addressing the needs of both secular and religious populations within the Chief Rabbinate’s scope.

In his outreach, Rabbi Ber frequently engages with communities across Israel through Torah lectures, educational programs, and events involving Haredi, Hasidic, and Religious Zionist audiences. He has described the rabbinic role as a public service, highlighting the importance of connecting with people from varied backgrounds. His focus on accessibility and inclusivity is seen as an attempt to bridge divides in Israeli society.

As Chief Ashkenazi Rabbi, Rabbi Ber has indicated plans to reinforce the Chief Rabbinate’s engagement with Israel’s varied Jewish traditions, aiming to create an institution that acknowledges and serves Israel’s diverse population.

Ido Fechter, “First Interview: The Message According to Netanya’s New Chief Rabbi,” Makor Rishon, (September 12, 2014). [Hebrew]
“Rabbi Kalman Bar: We Will Bring the Kashrut Revolution in Netanya to the Chief Rabbinate,” Arutz Sheva, (September 25, 2024). [Hebrew].
“Kerem B’Yavneh Yeshiva Unites Around Rabbi Kalman Bar,” Arutz Sheva, (September 25, 2024). [Hebrew].
Hezki Baruch, Dvid Amar, “Degel HaTorah: Supporting Rabbi Kalman Bar,” Arutz Sheva, (September 26, 2024). [Hebrew].
“Kalman Ber to be Israel’s Ashkenazi chief rabbi,” JNS, (October 31, 2024). 
Eliav Breuer, “Rabbi Kalman Bar appointed new Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi,” Jerusalem Post, (October 31, 2024). 

Photo: Yeshivat Mercaz Harav, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.