Alan Lew

Alan Lew was an American rabbi and author who made significant contributions to the field of Judaism. Born in 1943, Lew was a prominent figure in the Conservative Jewish movement. He is notable for founding the world's first Jewish meditation center, which reflects his interest in exploring the intersection of Jewish and Eastern spiritual practices.

Lew's work often focused on bridging the traditions of Judaism and Buddhism, earning him the nickname "the Zen rabbi." This moniker was even adopted as the title of one of his books, One God Clapping: The Spiritual Path of a Zen Rabbi. Through his writing and teachings, Lew aimed to promote a deeper understanding and appreciation of the spiritual dimensions of Jewish life. He passed away in 2009, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering rabbi and author who helped to shape a new era of Jewish spiritual exploration.