The Third Commandment and the Return of the Anusim: A Rabbi's Memoir of an Incredible People

Oh, what a book! I read it twice because there is so much little known information packed into a very concise book! I learned so much about the Anusim (an unfamiliar term to me) and the crypto- Jews. Through the Rabbi's passion, determination, and pro-active part in bringing those "lost" and/ or confused generations to an understanding of their heritage, so many people were enlightened and helped to return to their very roots. So many people wondered why certain actions of their ancestors were performed, only to find, through the Rabbi's commitment to these people, that their ancestors were brave, steadfast and honorable in their actions to remain true to their Faith , in spite of the pain and suffering they might endure if they were caught, The Rabbi's ability to convey these acts of commitment to the ancestors who sought his teaching, invoked a pride in one's self, one's family history and in Judaism. The Rabbi helped those who chose to return to Judaism, as well as those who remained Christian, but were enlightened about the inhumane treatment their families endured. Rabbi Leon, through frank and personal commentary, exposed that black period in man's inhumanity to fellow humans, using the guise of religiosity, The better part of the Rabbi's life has been dedicated to creating awareness, culpability and paths of inner peace to those who sought the answers to questions left unanswered for centuries. Bravo, Rabbi Leon!! I bought copies of the book for my sons to read. I cannot wait to engage in conversation with them about the book, the Rabbi they once knew and loved so many years ago, and the miraculous man who gave them the greatest of all gifts: themselves! May you continue to inspire and educate those who have the "Need to Know".

A mystical journey simply written with wonder and awe by a humble man who is still amazed that G-d has called on him to carry out a grand plan! What are the odds that a man born in New York, raised in Bridgeport, Connecticut and who moves to New Jersey to lead his Jewish congregation will then accept a position at a synagogue in El Paso, Texas to begin an odyssey of true bibical proportions!This reader was captivated from the very beginning by the series of events that, like an intricately woven tapastry, build one upon the other leading and showing Rabbi Leo, that he is indeed chosen, to be a guiding light for our hidden brethren fearful, with very good cause, yet deternined to retain some remnant of a their long lost Judaism. Rabbi Leon relates his story in an engagng and very personal style. Readers will find his style very warm and inviting, as if the Rabbi has asked you to his office, better still, his home for a casual evening of chit chat. But, the reader will learn about love, commitment, loyalty and perseverance. All this in a little gem of a memoir that is not to be missed!

Read Rabbi Leon's 'The Third Commandment and the Return of the Anusim: A Rabbi's Memoir of an Incredible People' and was able to and have multiple perspectives during my own travels and exploring through some of the Jewish landmarks that he visited. Very good, insightful narratives and personal takes from his travels on the voyage of the Anusim through the centuries. Through my travels and this memoir as one of my guides, I was able to gain greater appreciation for what my grandfather went through growing up in Santander, Spain

I first met both the amazing Rabbi Leon and B'nai Anusim in El Paso many years ago. I had the honor of hosting several for the High Holy Days and had the good fortune to hear their stories firsthand. His book enthralled me as I saw what had developed and been accomplished to help the B'nai Anusim since I left El Paso. The added thoughts on the Third Commandment have already the subject of interesting discussions with several friends. Read this book!

What’s not to love about this book? The Rabbi is well versed and knowledgeable about Sephardic Jews and how many because of the Spanish Inquisition had to go underground and convert to Catholicism. Now with DNA and genealogy many are wanting to learn about their roots and searching. Rabbi Leon is convinced and there to help.

Rabbi Leon does a wonderful job sharing his stories and teaching us about the history of the Anusim. I learned so much about these people and the strength and courage it has taken many families to keep their Judaism alive.

I've been using it now for a month. I believe it is working but definitely not as fast as other users. For the last week I actually mixed mine with bentonite per a blogger and that seems to help. Once this is finished I'll be looking for something else.

The Third Commandment meaning, as it relates to the Inquisition Period and other tragic events in human history, which Rabbi Stephen A. Leon so wisely explains, is truly most impactful & thought provoking!