RELIGION

Warren Goldstein

Chief rabbi of South Africa

The chief rabbi of South Africa since 2005, Warren Goldstein walks a delicate line in a country still struggling with the legacy of apartheid. On the one hand, Jews are accepted as part of South African culture; on the other, the ruling ANC party still remains often hostile to Israel and Zionism.

In 2017, Goldstein distinguished himself by calling for South Africa’s Jewish community to join in protests against President Jacob Zuma, who was accused of corruption.

“Say no to corruption and state capture,” said Goldstein. “Let us make our voices heard through the length and breadth of this country to say that we do not want a country of injustice and corruption. Let us be free from the tyranny of corruption, let us be free to create the country of our dreams.”

Goldstein is known for his communal initiatives, including the Shabbat Project, which has become an annual event in which Jews of all backgrounds from across the world observe one Sabbath together. (Photo credit: Office of Chief Rabbi Warren Goldstein.)