Rockets, Rings, and Rabbanus
Rav Daniel Hershkowitz on Torah, Leadership, and Balance
A Rabbi, a Government Minister, and a University President walked into a podcast studio.
No, it’s not the setup for a joke—it’s the extraordinary life of Rav Daniel Hershkowitz. His career spans academia, public service, and the rabbinate, blending these worlds with purpose and humility.
This week on Shtark Tank, I had the privilege of sitting down with Rav Hershkowitz to explore his fascinating journey. From managing Israel’s Civil Service and leading Bar-Ilan University to delivering drashot in Haifa, his story is one of integration and inspiration.
Key Highlights from Our Conversation
🚀 Rocket Science and the Yetzer Hara
What do missiles and the yetzer hara (inclination) have in common? Rav Hershkowitz draws surprising parallels between the scientific theory of balance and life’s struggles, showing how even our challenges serve a vital purpose in keeping us grounded and moving forward.
👵 The Power of Grandmothers
Sometimes, a single conversation can change your life. Rav Hershkowitz shares how his grandmother encouraged him to pursue smicha (rabbinic ordination) after completing his PhD in mathematics, continuing a family legacy of Torah and academic scholarship.
🎻 The Truth About Unity
Unity isn’t uniformity—it’s harmony. Rav Hershkowitz explains why Jewish unity should be like an orchestra, where different instruments play unique notes but come together to create something beautiful.
Why You Should Listen
This episode isn’t just for those in public service or academia. It’s for anyone striving to integrate Torah values into their professional lives, balance competing responsibilities, or deepen their understanding of leadership.
One Thought to Leave You With
Rav Hershkowitz believes that “balancing forces”—whether in science, leadership, or personal growth—are essential. Like the wings on a rocket, they may seem to slow us down, but they’re what keep us stable.
🎧 Ready to hear more? Listen to the full episode here.
If you enjoyed this post, feel free to share it or leave a comment. I’d love to hear your thoughts!