BIO Gabor Fináli

Gabriel Fináli is a Neolog rabbi in Budapest, Hungary, whose life reflects both personal and cultural transformation. Born in 1977 during the era of the Iron Curtain, his coming of age coincided with Eastern Europe’s search for identity and meaning. Living in Israel and the U.S. during the 1990s, he embraced optimism, exploration, and deep engagement with Jewish life.

He became an observant Jew but later developed critical perspectives on orthodox practice, leading him to Neolog Judaism—a movement that balances historical understanding and modern critique with formal rituals and connection to tradition. Ordained as a rabbi for nearly ten years, Gabriel has over 20 years of experience as a religious leader. He has served as a youth rabbi, taught in schools, and written extensively, always challenging assumptions and engaging in respectful debate.

Passionate about reaching beyond conventional settings, he emphasizes informal teaching, interfaith dialogue, and music as tools to share Jewish wisdom with those who might never enter a synagogue. He leads the synagogue Ohel Avraham, the Tent of Abraham, and lives in Budapest with his family. Through his work, Gabriel blends tradition, inquiry, and creativity, making Judaism accessible, relevant, and alive for contemporary communities.