My family had the privilege of being around and learning from Rabbi Ezra Labaton every summer for over 30 years. The Rabbi led by example, and his enthusiasm for life was contagious. In every conversation, speech or class I attended, Rabbi Labaton’s approach made learning Torah feel fun and exciting, stimulating to the mind and always relevant to our modern-day lives.
Rabbi Labaton gave unique classes. His classes were a means of bringing past generations of Torah scholars, and their thought processes, into our lives. On any given topic or question, it wasn’t only about a definitive answer, but about the different opinions, the reasons behind them, and what we thought about it. He brought the Torah to life and gave everyone, whether on a beginner’s or advanced level, the confidence to contribute to the discussion, and ultimately to continue the conversation at home.
Rabbi Labaton introduced us to special people and amazing organizations from around the globe. His worldly outlook was the embodiment of Tikun Olam and Selem Elokim. He reminded us over and over that every human being is special and that we have a sacred duty to engage with and improve the world. Rabbi Labaton was a gifted orator, as his Shabbat speeches always managed to blend the Shabbat Parasha to current events, and to motivate us to do our part to improve the lives of those around us. And it was always delivered in a way that was easily adaptable to our Shabbat table family discussion.
Rabbi Labaton had an innocent smile that made everyone feel like his best friend. For such a great man to be so approachable is rare. We were lucky to live only about a block away from the Rabbi – and every summer, Rabbi Labaton would grace my parents’ home with a visit. We’d sit as a family, sometimes three generations, and talk about life, family, sports, Tsedaka and Chesed.
From when I was 4 or 5 years old, my father started bringing me to shul. It was the early 1980’s, and West Deal shul was the old Walter Reade Mansion. We’d walk up the creaky staircase, and see and hear a wonderfully energetic and loving young Rabbi. This past summer, in a much larger and very vibrant atmosphere which serves as a testament to our brilliant Rabbi, Rabbi Labaton seemed just as young and energetic as he was three decades earlier. He continued to make us think and smile through his classes and derashot. He even graced our new home for a class, as he did by my parents so many times over the years – something my wife and I will cherish always. His memory will continue to inspire me and my family.
By Jack Hidary
