Rabbi Twerski Produced Over 50 Books for ArtScroll
The psychiatrist and author wrote works on Torah and mental health, often repeating the same core lessons across decades.
By Nadia Rahman ·
Rabbi Abraham J. Twerski, M.D., collaborated with ArtScroll Mesorah Publications on more than 50 books. The partnership began when he submitted his first manuscript to the publisher. These works combined Chasidic teachings with practical advice for modern life.
Twerski grew up in Milwaukee during the 1940s. He attended public high school and studied Torah with his father. He was the son of a chasidishe rebbe and a nephew of R’ Shlomo, the Bobover Rav. His lineage included the Maggid of Mezritch and the Baal Shem Tov.
The rabbi studied the mussar text Mesillas Yesharim more than 250 times. He used this classic as the foundation for his outlook on self, others, and personal challenges. This repeated study shaped the content of his lectures and writings.
Twerski worked as a psychiatrist and founded a leading substance abuse hospital in the United States. He also served as a public speaker and author. He wrote for both psychiatric professionals and religious audiences. His books included collections of Chasidic stories and analyses of weekly Torah portions.
He often addressed personal and emotional difficulties in his writing. The texts explored how inner pain could appear as anger or pessimism. These topics allowed readers to identify struggles they might hesitate to discuss with family or friends.
Twerski joked that he had written the same book 50 times. He maintained that his works, whether from the perspective of a rabbi or a psychiatrist, relied on the same Torah principles. He viewed this consistency as the core of his guidance.
ArtScroll cited his books as a key part of its publishing history. The publisher noted that his works helped English-speaking readers access traditional wisdom. His manuscripts continued to arrive at the company, adding to a catalog that spanned decades.
His distinct appearance, including a beard, payot, and bekitche, marked his presence at hospitals, conferences, and religious gatherings. He described Chasidus as the defining element of his thought and daily life. His humor and warmth characterized his public interactions.
The source describes his legacy as a lasting part of ArtScroll's output. His writings aimed to connect ancient teachings to contemporary struggles. The collection remains available to new generations of readers.
