18Forty Podcast Aaron Kotler: Inside the Lakewood Yeshiva [American Yeshiva World 2/3]
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Feb 17, 2026 Aaron Kotler, grandson of Rav Aharon Kotler and senior Lakewood figure, reflects on the founding vision of Beis Medrash Govoah. He recounts why Lakewood became a yeshiva center. He explores the global mission of yeshivas, the rise of kolelim, and how sustained Torah learning reshaped American Jewish life. Practical tips for philanthropy and building resilient communities are discussed.
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Tuxedos At Early Rabbinic Ordination
- David Bashevkin recounts his grandfather's American yeshiva ordination photo where graduates wore tuxedos.
- That image symbolized pride in early American yeshiva achievement and identity formation.
Yeshiva Revolution Shaped All Jewish Life
- The American yeshiva revolution changed American Judaism beyond denominational lines.
- David Byshevkin urges mining Orthodox experience for ideas applicable across the broader Jewish community.
Lakewood Rebuilt Torah In America
- Lakewood (BMG) rebuilt serious Torah study in America and created American-trained Torah leadership.
- Its founders emphasized Torah lishma (learning for its own sake) as the engine that raised communal levels.
