My Approach: Questions & Answers

What kind of rabbi are you, and what guides your work?

I am an independent rabbi, educator, chaplain and writer, ordained at Hebrew Union College in Jerusalem in 2004. My work draws on Jewish learning, philosophy, Hasidism and Jewish Renewal. I approach Judaism as a living inheritance, with human dignity, honesty, compassion and responsibility at the heart of its practice.

How do you approach Israel, Zionism and Palestine?

I was born in Israel, and my connection to its people, language, history and land is deeply personal. Since my ordination in 2004, peace activism has been an integral part of my rabbinic work.

Before moving to South Africa in 2013, I served as Executive Director of the Sulha Peace Project, taught at Neve Shalom/Wahat al-Salam, broadcast on All for Peace Radio, and worked on the education committee of the Israeli-Palestinian NGO Forum. These experiences grounded my convictions in relationships with people living on both sides of the conflict.

Since moving to South Africa, I have continued to express my views through a variety of public platforms and occasions, including when doing so brought criticism and disagreement within my own community.

The labels “Zionist” and “anti-Zionist” do not adequately describe my position. Jewish belonging and security, and Palestinian dignity, freedom and self-determination, are commitments I hold together. My connection to Israel includes the responsibility to question its policies and leadership. My commitment to peace means working towards a future in which both peoples can live in safety and freedom, with mutual recognition and equal human dignity.

How do Judaism and your training as a sangoma relate?

Judaism is my home tradition and the foundation of my rabbinic work. Living in South Africa also led me to train as a sangoma and engage deeply with African ancestral traditions. I respect the integrity of each tradition and approach the relationship between them with discernment. Jewish teaching, ceremonies and pastoral work with me do not require participation in another spiritual practice.

Are LGBTQ people and interfaith families welcome?

Yes. LGBTQ people, interfaith couples and families are welcome in my teaching and professional practice. I offer thoughtful ceremonies for same-sex and interfaith couples, beginning with a conversation about their values, traditions and wishes. Legal marriage registration arrangements are clarified separately before booking.

Why do you work independently?

After a decade of congregational work in Johannesburg, I began independent practice in 2023. This allows me to bring teaching, pastoral care, writing and interfaith work together in my own professional framework. I speak for myself, rather than on behalf of a former employer or religious movement.

How do you address questions about your personal conduct?

I take questions about my integrity seriously. There are things in my past I would handle differently today. I have taken responsibility for my own choices and learned from difficult experience.

My work as a rabbi and teacher carries particular responsibilities: respecting each person’s agency, maintaining clear professional boundaries, and being mindful of the influence that comes with trust.

I respect the privacy of those whose lives have intersected with mine and keep personal matters out of public discussion. I stand by my integrity and the values that guide my work, recognising that their strongest expression is in how I live and treat people every day.

Who can benefit from a consultation?

I offer consultations to individuals, couples, families, NGOs and faith-based communities seeking thoughtful guidance on spiritual, relational or communal questions.

These may be helpful for interfaith couples and families exploring religious differences, shared values, rituals and family life; people considering a spiritual path, deepening their Jewish learning or exploring conversion to Judaism; individuals navigating questions of identity, belonging, purpose or a significant life transition; and NGOs and faith-based communities working through questions of leadership, ethics, interfaith engagement or community relationships.

Where useful, consultations can include facilitated dialogue to help those involved understand one another and consider constructive ways forward. We agree on the purpose, scope and confidentiality of the work beforehand.

For those exploring conversion, a consultation provides guidance on learning and possible pathways; any formal conversion follows the requirements of the relevant rabbinic authority.

What professional standards guide an engagement?

We clarify the purpose, scope, fees and arrangements before beginning. I respect confidentiality, personal agency and professional boundaries, and recommend specialist support when a question falls outside my competence. You are free to ask questions, decline a proposal or end an engagement.

Why South Africa, and how does Midreshet Africa relate to your work?

South Africa has been my home since 2013. My life here includes family, teaching, interfaith relationships and an ongoing engagement with African life and thought. RabbiSaar.com represents my personal professional practice. Midreshet Africa Academy, which I founded, is a separately governed educational institution.

How much of your family life do you share publicly?

I am a father of four, and family is an important part of my life. My family members have their own lives and a right to privacy. I share what is relevant to understanding my work and commitments while respecting that privacy.

How do I begin working with you?

Begin with a conversation about what you are looking for. We can discuss suitability, scope, fees and practical arrangements. For ceremonies and events, please include the proposed date and location. Email rabbisaar@gmail.com or call / WhatsApp +27 65 918 7566.