Rabbi Kerry M Olitzky and Stuart A Copans Resources

Twelve Jewish Steps to Recovery

by Rabbi Kerry M. Olitzky & Stuart A. Copans, M.D. (Jewish Lights Publishing, 1991)

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Summary:

Twelve Jewish Steps to Recovery takes the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous and interprets them from a Jewish worldview. The book is divided into 12 chapters, in which each chapter covers one step and includes the following:

·    explanations, illustrations, and reflections on the step from the authors;

·    a quote, passage, or story from the Jewish tradition to enhance the understanding of the step;

·    a passage from Jewish literature (usually the Torah) to give the reader something to consider regarding the step;

·    a meditation, also usually from Jewish literature;

·    a psalm to be used to encourage the reader toward sobriety; and

·    a prayer. 

The twelve steps are interpreted as being primarily about making things right between the alcoholic (or addict of any kind) and God.  Although the book is written from a Jewish perspective, the authors make it clear that their guidelines and reflections are not only for those of the Jewish faith. 

Clearly following the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, this would be a good book for any Jew in recovery from alcoholism or addiction of any kind.  It would be helpful in conjunction with AA meetings or on its own.  It is designed to be read at the reader’s pace, and the authors stress that it is not necessary to read it from cover to cover.  Readers are encouraged to read whichever parts they desire and take away whatever they find useful.