Ep. 50: Elevate Shabbos: Leverage What Shabbos Has to Offer ft. Rabbi Akiva Feldman

Rabbi Feldman and I discuss finding meaning in what could arguably be one of the most routine parts of the week: Shabbos. For many, it is unlikely we are tapping into all that Shabbos has to offer. Sure we know halacha, and we appreciate the restfullness of it, but is there more? You betcha there is. Listen as Rabbi Feldman shows us how and why. Rabbi Akiva Feldman serves as the Rav of Congregation Ohel Yakov in Baltimore, Maryland, a historic synagogue established in 1875. He assumed this leadership role following the tenure of Rabbi Peretz Dinovitz, zt”l, bringing renewed energy and dedication to the congregation. A distinguished alumnus of Yeshivas Ner Yisroel, Rabbi Feldman furthered his Torah studies at Yeshivas Mir in Eretz Yisrael and at Yeshivas Birchas Mordechai under Rabbi Yaakov Friedman, shlit”a. He received his rabbinic ordination (semicha) from Ner Yisroel. In addition to his role at Ohel Yakov, Rabbi Feldman contributes to Jewish education in Baltimore by teaching Halacha at Bais Yaakov and Bnos Yisroel high schools. Rabbi Feldman hails from a family with a rich rabbinic heritage. His paternal grandfather, Rabbi Emanuel Feldman, shlit”a, served as the rav of Congregation Beth Jacob in Atlanta, Georgia, for many decades. His uncle, Rabbi Ilan Feldman, currently leads Beth Jacob of Atlanta, and his great-uncle, Rabbi Aharon Feldman, shlit”a, is the Rosh HaYeshiva of Ner Yisroel in Baltimore. His father, Mr. Jonathan Feldman, a musmach of Ner Yisroel, is well-known in Baltimore for his community advocacy and involvement. His mother, Mrs. Judi Feldman, is a shadchan who taught at the Beth Tfiloh school for many years. Under Rabbi Feldman's leadership, Congregation Ohel Yakov has experienced significant growth, with initiatives aimed at enhancing Torah learning, community engagement, and chesed activities. His dedication to fostering a warm and inclusive environment continues to strengthen the congregation's bonds and spiritual growth. To be in touch with him email him at [email protected]