Beneath a Still Surface 

Photos: Itzik Belinitzki, Flash 90

The plastic partition that rests between Ponevezher Rosh Yeshivah Rav Gershon Edelstein and his visitors is symbolic in the sense that he can see them perfectly even as he exists in a sublime world, somewhat removed from the commotion.

Minchah has just come to an end, and the small microphone he uses to communicate with visitors is powered on.

Rabbi Noach Paley is first in line, and through his organization, Lev El Haneshamah, he is on the frontlines of the contemporary chinuch scene. He comes bearing the questions, worries, concerns, and anxieties of so many parents, and the Rosh Yeshivah receives him and all he carries with a gentle smile.

This is who Rav Gershon Edelstein is and what he does. He is mechanech Jewish children.