Their pages are a welcome break from the recycled posts that fill most feeds. Yet that very freshness forces us to ask: are they really sharing the Torah, or chasing the kavod that comes with likes and praise?

Its natural to want a polished look and get more Instagram followers. Still, the app can also reach young Jews, pass on Torah ideas, and push back against voices that pull people away.

Authentic Torah Outreach or Digital Fame?

A major conflict is between real outreach and self-promotion.  A lot of religious leaders started posting to provide Torah insights, ideas for Jewish holidays, or important lessons about life.  People who follow you often say things like, “That post made me feel better during a hard time” or “Reading your weekly parsha insight helps me understand the lesson.”  These passionate replies show how social media may have a good effect.

 But things could change when follower counts become public measures of achievement.  If a profile has a lot of sponsored content, branded photographs, expertly arranged family photos, or lifestyle shots with a lot of selfies, it will raise issues.

• Is the message still Torah-centered, or are we posting for likes and shares?

• Is our focus on Hashem—or on ourselves?

Halacha teaches that kavod (honor) can be a spiritual pitfall. Rabbeinu Yonah warns that excessive desire for honor can blind the heart. We must ask: do our posts inspire Torah growth in others, or inflate our ego?

Behind the Scenes: What Drives a Frum Influencer?

From conversations with those in the Orthodox influencer space, several motivations emerge:

1. Spreading Torah and Inspiration

• Sharing a parsha thought or beautiful Midrash.

• Making positive content for Jewish holidays, such decorating for Sukkot or giving Shavuot learning suggestions.

  2. Building a Personal Brand

• Collaborating with kosher product companies (candles, coffee, gift shops).

• Monetizing reach—for some, an unexpected livelihood opportunity.

  3. Seeking Connection and Community

• Especially for frum graduates or baalei teshuva adjusting to religious life.

• Finding like-minded peers and building a digital network.

  4. Navigating Family and Privacy

• Many influencers involve spouses or children in their content.

• Balancing communal sharing with privacy concerns raises serious responsibility.

3 Guiding Principles for Frum Influencers

To remain Torah-focused and avoid pitfalls, these best practices help:

1. Intention (Kavannah) Above All

• Before posting, ask: “Is this content for kavod or to elevate others?”

• If it’s Torah wisdom, even a short, sincere video can spark inspiration.

2. Avoid Self-Promotion Trap

• Refrain from repetitive self-references or comparisons.

• Let Torah speak louder than the personality behind the screen.

3. Uphold Torah Values in All Content

• Put modesty (tznius), honesty (emet), and respect (kavod habriyot) at the center of everything.

• Include disclaimers with product suggestions and let people know if you were paid to promote them.

For the Frum Community: What to Support?

Readers and followers can help shape healthier online Torah culture by:

• Thoughtfully listening: Like and comment on posts that make you feel good spiritually.

• Engage respectfully. Ask honest questions and offer what you know from the Torah.

• Hold them accountable. Remind creators to cite sources, avoid clickbait, and protect peoples privacy.

Last Thoughts

Instagram itself is not the problem. Used well, it can lift spirits, strengthen Jewish identity, and reach those drifting toward secular content. Intent, honesty, and a touch of humility matter most.

Frum influencers now sit at the awkward crossroads of Judaism and modern tech. They can guide many souls or, unintentionally, polish their own image. May every post tip the balance toward glory for HaShem rather than for the poster.