The Jewish Innovation
Rabbi Israel Salanter, the leader of the 19th century Mussar Movement said that it is every Mussar practitioner’s duty to help spread Mussar. I started teaching Mussar two months after I started practicing it.
The class became a book called “The Spiritual Practice of Good Actions: Finding Balance Through the Soul Traits of Mussar.” I’ve written the book to appeal to the 70% of Jews who do not belong to a synagogue by writing in English only, and providing alternatives to “God Talk.”
One of my students suggested we create an app. We designed it, and now we need your help to build the Pocket Mensch. The book and app are scheduled to be out in September.
You can be a part of this story – please make a contribution to join the movement.
The Impact
Beyond that, let’s face it – Judaism is in a crisis. 70% of Jewish Americans are not in a synagogue, and younger Jews have a less strong Jewish identity than older generations.
We need to offer alternative ways to be Jewish. Having a mensch in your pocket is just the kind of thing that can help Jews of all denominations live according to the spirit of the Torah without having to go to the synagogue or study text.
And of course for people like me who already practice Mussar, the Pocket Mensch will make that practice easier and more impactful.
Your contribution will help restore Mussar and bring more light into the world.
What Will You Do with the Money?
We’ll go from the wireframes (skeletal frameworks for each screen) to a fully robust app that you can hold in your hand.
Put a Mensch in Your Pocket – pick a prize, make a contribution, and almost immediately you can start practicing Mussar via the thank you gifts.
