A century after Rabbi Abraham Isaac HaKohen Kook laid the spiritual foundations of Yaffo, Yeshivat Hesder "Shirat Moshe" was established. Founded by Rabbi Eliyahu Mali, the yeshiva was born from a profound understanding that practical action and spirituality complement each other, implementing the vision of practical Zionism in Yaffo – Torah that doesn't remain within the walls of the study hall, but flows outward to strengthen the Jewish community through acts of kindness, giving, and daily social action.
Contemporary Yaffo reflects the full spectrum of Israeli society – Jews, Arabs and Christians, religious and secular, affluent families and disadvantaged populations, new immigrants – particularly from the Ethiopian community – and longtime residents. This ancient port city, situated at the heart of the Tel Aviv metropolis and Israel's economic center, serves as a crucial nexus of influence for the greater Tel Aviv area and the nation as a whole, presenting unique challenges that demand creative solutions.
Yeshivat Hesder "Shirat Moshe" – a life's work that began 18 years ago with one man's vision, a historic synagogue in southwest Yaffo and a small group of students, has grown into a vibrant learning community of over 150 students, from first-year through post-army scholars, united by their love of Torah and shared spiritual aspirations. The yeshiva serves as the beating heart of the "Illuminating Yaffo" organization and its many branches.
The yeshiva's educational environment is rich and diverse in the spirit of Rabbi Kook's teachings, offering classes in Talmud and Jewish law through both broad and analytical study, mystical Torah teachings, Rabbi Kook's writings, Chassidic philosophy, and exposure to world wisdom and cultures. The knowledge and insights students acquire in the study hall are directly applied through daily social and volunteer work throughout the city. This engagement provides yeshiva students and alumni with a stable foundation of faith for the challenges of military service and life's journey.