Ben Aharon Scandal

In a new Hebrew article by Tomer Persico, the case of the Israeli spiritual teacher Yishaayahu Ben Aharon is discussed.

Ben Aharon is charged with sexual exploitation, and though very respected and central to the Israeli movement, has been thrown out of his community.

Andrew Cohen is cited in this article as an example of a problematic guru, in order to shed light on the Israeli situation.

Persico argues that one of the problems with the guru institute in the west is that it is plucked out of it’s traditional background, and the result is that there are no checks and balances on the guru, he can do anything he wants, and later excuse himself in any way he wants (e.g. “crazy wisdom”). In contrast to that, a spiritual teacher who is anchored in a spiritual tradition has basic ground rules he has to follow.

Read the full article, in Hebrew

(We will publish a full English translation if/when one becomes available.)