Kaplan: A Journey from Business to Jewish Education and Authorship
The professional trajectory of Kaplan is a testament to versatility, moving from the entrepreneurial world of the food industry to the spiritual and academic realms of Jewish scholarship. Today, he is recognized as a prolific author, an international lecturer, and a dedicated educator based in Jerusalem.
From Business to the Classroom
Kaplan began his professional life in the business sector as the co-owner of a kosher restaurant located in the Chicago area. However, in 1987, he underwent a significant career shift, transitioning from business to education. He moved to Jerusalem to become a teacher of Talmud (the central text of Jewish civil and ceremonial law) at Ohr Somayach.
His commitment to spiritual guidance extended further as he took on the role of mashgiach ruchani (a spiritual supervisor and mentor) at Yeshivas Bais Yisroel in Neve Yaakov, Jerusalem. He continues to serve as a senior lecturer at Ohr Somayach.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Literary Contributions and Educational Tools
Kaplan's transition into writing began in 2000 with the publication of The Ohr Somayach Gemara Companion, a 64-page guidebook designed specifically for entry-level Talmud students to help them navigate their studies.
In 2003, he expanded his reach with The Kiruv Files. This collection of humorous short stories was drawn from his experiences working with baalei teshuva (individuals returning to the practice of Judaism). Kaplan intended this work to serve as a practical tool, illustrating for these individuals the appropriate and inappropriate paths to take during their spiritual journey.
Parenting and Inspirational Works
During the 2000s, Kaplan became a voice for parents through a dedicated column in Hamodia magazine. These insights were later compiled into two influential books: Polishing Diamonds: Bringing out the sparkle in our children (2005) and Perfecting Diamonds: Bringing out the sparkle in our children (2008).
Since 2006, he has authored six titles within the Impact! series, which focuses on inspirational short stories. The reach of these stories grew in 2009 when Leah Subar adapted twenty-six of them for a younger audience in the book Impact! for Kids.
Key Facts
- Current Roles: Senior lecturer at Ohr Somayach and mashgiach ruchani at Yeshivas Bais Yisroel.
- Career Pivot: Moved from owning a kosher restaurant in Chicago to teaching in Jerusalem in 1987.
- Major Works: Author of The Kiruv Files, the Impact! series, and the Diamonds parenting series.
- Public Speaking: International lecturer specializing in parenting and Jewish education.
- Story Archive: Maintains a personal file of approximately 2,500 stories for use in his speeches.
| Year | Title | Focus/Target Audience |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | The Ohr Somayach Gemara Companion | Entry-level Talmud students |
| 2003 | The Kiruv Files | Baalei teshuva (Returning Jews) |
| 2005 | Polishing Diamonds | Parenting |
| 2008 | Perfecting Diamonds | Parenting |
| 2006-Present | Impact! Series (6 titles) | Inspirational stories |
| 2009 | Impact! for Kids (Adapted by Leah Subar) | Children |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Kaplan's career before he became a teacher?
Before entering the field of education, Kaplan was a business owner and co-owner of a kosher restaurant in the Chicago area.
Where does Kaplan currently teach?
He serves as a senior lecturer at Ohr Somayach in Jerusalem and as a mashgiach ruchani at Yeshivas Bais Yisroel in Neve Yaakov.
What is the purpose of the book "The Kiruv Files"?
The book uses humorous short stories to guide baalei teshuva on the best practices and pitfalls to avoid when returning to Jewish observance.
How many stories does Kaplan use for his international lectures?
In a 2011 interview, Kaplan stated that he has approximately 2,500 stories on file to incorporate into his speeches.
What are Kaplan's primary areas of expertise as a lecturer?
He is an international lecturer focusing on Jewish education, parenting, and various other related subjects.