Benjamin's profile
Benjamin Shalva is a poet, hospice chaplain, and rabbi whose work explores loss, solace, ritual, and awe. His poetry and prose have appeared in Image, Spirituality & Health Magazine, The Washington Post, and other publications. His debut poetry collection, House of Mourning (Kelsay Books), offers a meditation on loss, end-of-life care, and the mysterious terrain between despair, desire, and renewal. He is also the author of two works of nonfiction, Spiritual Cross-Training and Ambition Addiction (Grand Harbor Press), which blend memoir with teachings from the world’s contemplative traditions.
In addition to his literary work, Benjamin serves as the Manager of Jewish Care, Support, and Rabbinic Services at Gilchrist, Maryland’s largest hospice organization. With over a decade of experience accompanying patients and families at the end of life, he specializes in spiritual care, grief support, and interfaith engagement. Benjamin teaches and leads workshops on death and dying, grief and healing, mindfulness meditation, poetry, and creative writing. His approach draws from Jewish, Buddhist, and Yogic traditions, as well as his background in the literary and performing arts.
Benjamin lives in Baltimore with his wife, their two children, and their two hound dogs. Learn more at www.benjaminshalva.com.
