The prophets often likened sinful behavior to alcoholism, as seen in Isaiah 29:9. People succumbed to instant gratification, ignoring long-term consequences—much like alcoholics rationalizing their addiction.
Mussar, originating with Moshe Rabbeinu and expanded in the Talmud, was formalized by Rebbe Yisrael of Salant. Contemporary works like Michtav Eliyahu and Alei Shur address modern struggles with personal growth.
Spiritual self-improvement is often private, leaving us unaware of others’ struggles. In my forty years working with alcoholics, I have seen how people successfully change their behaviors.
Twelve-Step programs effectively combat addictions—including alcohol, drugs, and gambling. Some question their suitability for Torah-observant Jews, but they align with Torah principles.
Concerns about mixed-gender meetings and church locations are logistical, not intrinsic flaws. More synagogues should open their doors to these programs.
Though Alcoholics Anonymous originated in a Christian context, its teachings align with Torah wisdom. Concepts found in the Talmud and mussar literature appear in the Twelve Steps, showing their universal relevance.
Some mistakenly compare the Fifth Step to Catholic confession, but Rebbe Elimelech of Lizensk encouraged sharing struggles with a trusted friend, breaking the yetzer hara’s hold.
Step #1: We admitted powerlessness over alcohol—that our lives were unmanageable.
Step #2: Recognized a Higher Power’s ability to restore sanity.
This mirrors the Talmudic teaching (Kedushin 30b) that only divine help can subdue the yetzer hara. Even righteous figures nearly succumbed to temptation but were saved by G-d’s intervention (Kedushin 81a). The Talmud equates sin to temporary insanity (Sotah 3a), reinforcing the need for divine assistance.
Step #3: Surrendered our will to G-d’s care.
The phrase "G-d as we understood Him" avoids specific religious definitions. For Jews, it means turning to Hashem. The Torah teaches: "Set aside your will for Hashem’s" (Ethics of the Fathers 2:4) and "Cast your burden upon Hashem" (Psalms 55:23).
Step #4: Conducted a fearless moral inventory.
Mussar emphasizes cheshbon hanefesh (self-examination). King Solomon warns, "Every way of a person is right in his own eyes" (Proverbs 21:2), highlighting the ease of self-justification. Rabbi Yeruchem Levovitz stressed the importance of recognizing both strengths and weaknesses.
Step #5: Admitted our wrongs to G-d, ourselves, and another person.
Rather than confession, this reflects Rebbe Elimelech’s guidance to seek a trusted friend for honest self-reflection.
The remaining steps echo Torah principles, reinforcing that the Twelve Steps embody mussar teachings. My book Self-Improvement? I'm Jewish was inspired by a recovering alcoholic seeking a mussar-based program. The Twelve Steps serve as a valuable framework for personal and spiritual growth.
This version is our adaptation of the original text by Rabbi Dr. Abraham J. Twerski.