Rabbi Hirshel Jaffe, known as the “Running Rabbi,” presented two engaging talks on October 16 and 17 in the Smathers Library Judaica Suite and the Health Science Center Library, respectively. His first talk regaled listeners about his visit to the 52 hostages in Iran in 1980. The second talk highlighted his five-time battle with cancer and the role of faith through suffering.
Rabbi Jaffe earned the name the “Running Rabbi” after completing the New York City Marathon in 1978. His battle against leukemia began six years later. Through his journey, he co-authored “Why (Not) Me? Searching for God When We Suffer – A Five-Time Cancer Survivor’s Story of Family, Friendship and Faith,” the story of his rescue from leukemia and his spiritual triumph over despair.
In February 1980, Rabbi Jaffe volunteered to visit Iran and bring comfort to the 52 American hostages captured at the U.S. embassy in Teheran by Iranian militants. After their 444 days in captivity, the hostages were released in January 1981 and Rabbi Jaffe was invited to the White House to greet the Americans.
Both talks inspired listeners in person and virtually. The Smathers Libraries are thrilled to host incredible guests like Rabbi Jaffe and others who illuminate excellence.
