The Virtue of Hesed

It is a privilege to contribute to this Festschrift in honor of Elliot Klayman. Elliot is a gifted visionary, teacher, mentor, and friend. His wisdom, generosity, kindness, and sense of justice continue to leave a deep imprint on the Messianic Jewish movement. Elliot has always been a man to honor the past, envision the future, and make a difference today. I have learned much from Elliot, especially in the years that we served together at Beth Messiah Congregation in Columbus, Ohio, a congregation founded by Elliot and his wife Joyce. I learned that good organization and due process coupled with prayer and a deep concern for people lead to successful ministry. Elliot has accomplished many things in his life, but it is who he is rather than what he has accomplished that continues to be his legacy. If I had to pick one attribute to describe Elliot, it would be hesed or lovingkindness, as it is often translated in the Bible. Elliot truly is a Baal Hesed, a man of lovingkindness. Therefore, this essay in honor of Elliot Klayman is a survey of the virtue of hesed in the Bible and Jewish tradition.

Hesed in the Tanakh: The Loyal Love of God