BOOK/MOVIE REVIEW (Required)

THE THIRTY-THIRD HOUR
By: Mitchell Chefitz

The Thiry-Third Hour is a book written by Mitchell Chefitz. Mithchell Chefitz is the rabbi of Temple Israel of Greater Miami, and  the founder of the Havurah of South Florida. He has served as chairperson of the National  Havurah  Committee, editor of a nationally syndicated  weekly Torah column, and teacher at Havurah institutes and rabbinic conference. The author of the Los Angeles Times bestseller The Seventh Telling. He lives in Pinecrest, Florida.

The Thirty-Third Hour opens at midnight Saturday, in the study of Rabbi Arthur Greenberg, the leader of the largest synagogue in Miami. The Rabbi has until 9 a.m. Monday morning, thirty-three hours, to investigate a sex ethics charge brought against one of his colleagues by a member of the congregation, Brenda, an attractive widow and the mother of an autistic son.

That colleague, Moshe Katan, an associate from Arthur's seminary days, has been leading an experimental family education program at the synagogue, bringing together parents and children to explore the stories of the Bible in new and challenging ways. Now, piled on Arthur's desk are the video and audio recordings of these sessions and Brenda's journal, which he has to review in a desperate attempt to avoid a disastrous scandal. The reader becomes judge and jury as Arthur seeks to find out what happened and, in the process, undergoes a spiritual transformation himself.

This book was quite well-written mystery. I like the way the author provides many Jewish examples and values in an interesting fashion. I found the ending a little unbelievable and disappointing, but would say that the book was worthwhile. It provides insight about the potential possessed by a non-traditional rabbi, and how Judaism has much to offer.This is also an irresistible blend of spirituality and mystery. The best tales are those told simply, yet conceal and reveal layers of meaning. 

In this novel, the author daringly pushes the envelope of American Judaism, challenging Jews to reinvent their synagogues, their communities, and their own Jewish identities. It is revolutionary and original. Also, he brings an intuitive grasp of the mystical to everyday life. His teaching is disturbing, profound and inspiring. It is really a wise and humane book, rich with delightful stories.

The Thirty-Third Hour calls us to soul wrestling at its most profound and at its very best.