Rabbi Asher Lopatin

Rabbi Asher Lopatin is the spiritual leader of Kehillat Etz Chaim in Detroit, Michigan. He is also the founder and director of the Detroit Center for Civil Discourse, which works to nurture deep relationships between people with diverse views through dialogue. He was previously the president of Yeshivat Chovevei Torah, a Modern Orthodox rabbinical school in New York City. Rabbi Lopatin received rabbinical ordination from Yeshiva University and Yeshivas Brisk in Chicago.


Articles by Rabbi Asher Lopatin

Pikuach Nefesh: The Jewish Value of Saving a Life

The primacy of human life is a fundamental principle of Jewish law and a core value of Jewish tradition.

When a Loved One’s Politics Feels Like a Betrayal

In civil engagement, Judaism offers a way forward.

Come Together

Just as Judah approached Joseph, Jews of all stripes must show we can be one united people.

To Mix or Not to Mix

Lessons on Genesis — from the Emmys and beyond.

Cause and Effect

Eikev shows us that everything we do — or avoid doing — has consequences, even if we don’t see them now.

The Spiritual Trauma of Taking a Life

How the kosher practice of waiting between meat and dairy reminds us of Moses' discomfort with violence.

A Tale of Two Tragedies

Israel is the most uplifting place in the world, and on my trip there last week I felt the usual ...

What Can Jews Learn from the Fast of Ramadan?

Every year, during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims around the world observe a month-long fast. This fast, ...