My cousin Manuel Merzon, was an exemplary Jew and human being. He was a true
"Chosson Torah." Small in physical stature, quiet in demeanor, seemingly
retiring in manner, he was a giant of a person of iron will and divine purpose
who persevered and won the ultimate battle of life, being blessed with
outstandingly Jewish children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His
beloved grandson, Gary Torgow, an outstanding Jewish leader and person in his
own right, has collected his grandfather's thoughts and organized them in this
book form. Read Gary's introduction to the book and you will feel the greatness
of Manuel Merzon and perhaps, even more importantly, the flow of Jewish love
that passes between generations through the conduit of Torah life.
The greatness of Torah is that it is a never-ending study. There is no end to
the insights and lessons to be derived from Torah. The chain of Torah is
eternal. Every Jew has his contribution to make to the eternal lesson of Torah.
In the pages of this book you will find the ideas and insights of a loyal and
pious son of Israel on the weekly portions of the Torah. By reading his words, I
am certain that you will find inspiration and intelligence. But you will also
find room for your own thoughts and interpretations. Thus you will further
Manuel Merzon's ultimate purpose, the purpose of all Jews - to enhance the Torah
and make it even more glorious.
ù from the Foreword, by
Rabbi Berel Wein