Two generations after the gruesome events of the Nazi Holocaust, that era still evokes, horror and disbelief everywhere on earth. To the Torah Jew, it remains a lacerating phenomenon, for we have not nearly recovered from the human toil, nor have we dealt adequately with the profound questions it raises. In the absence of prophecy, we cannot pretend to know absolutely why it happened. But we can grapple for insights, grope for understanding, look for role models. We can seek enlightenment in the words of our Torah giants, before it happened, while it was going on, and when the incredible had occurred, how to chart a path through the ashes. We can learn from the bravery of great spiritual leaders and unknown men and women. We can analyze the deficiencies of most Holocaust literature and the apathy of governments. We can discredit forever the shameful canard that the sacred martyrs are not a credit to all of us. That is the purpose of this collection. These essays all appeared originally in "The Jewish Observer." Among the authors are legendary leaders of yesteryear, outstanding contemporary roshei yeshivah and rabbis, and respected thinkers and journalists. Most of these ideas are unavailable anywhere else in English. Individually and collectively, they provide approaches and insights that are essential reading for every thoughtful Jew.
by Rabbi Nisson Wolpin