Today we’d like to introduce you to Eliyahu Shmuel Ben Yah.
Hi Eliyahu, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I come from humble beginnings in Puerto Rico, shaped by adversity and survival. Life brought challenges early on—mental, physical, and sexual abuse, struggles with addiction, abandonment, and broken relationships. I walked through darkness, but by the grace and mercy of YHWH, I overcame. Every trial became a stepping stone to transformation.
Today, I stand as Dr. Eliyahu Shmuel Ben Yah—an accomplished author of over 30 books, a distinguished Sephardic Netzarim-Hebraic Rabbi, and a dynamic presence in media and ministry. I honor YHWH in all my endeavors, and my calling has reached across nations, cultures, and platforms.
As a seasoned ghostwriter and co-author of THE COMEBACK with renowned speaker Les Brown, I’ve told stories that spark change. I hold two doctorate degrees in Divinity, completed Hebrew studies at the Israel Bible Center, and am currently pursuing a doctorate in Philosophy and Psychology. My ordination as a Netzarim Rabbi was received through WMEK, where I also serve as Vice President of the Hebrew Sephardic Union Lion of Judah, International.
My bilingual ministry has transcended cultural and denominational barriers, striving to unite the mystical body of THE MESHIAJ. As a member of both the Latin-Jewish Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at the United Nations, I work to build bridges. I’ve had the honor of interpreting for leaders like Pastor Benny Hinn and impacting lives in countries including Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Cuba, Colombia, Mexico, Canada, and many more.
In 2014, I founded the Eliyahu Shmuel Ben Yah School of the Prophet and now lead both physical and virtual congregations under THE WAY, R.I.O.T. (Righteous Invasion of Torah). I’ve received recognition from political leaders in New York and Delaware, and serve as a certified chaplain in both New York and Houston, Texas. My previous service as a Texas Correctional Officer adds another layer to my understanding of redemption and discipline.
Despite my public role, I remain grounded in what matters most: faith, purpose, and family. I am a devoted father of four, living and serving from Texas, USA.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’ve faced many struggles throughout my life — from deep self-esteem issues and abandonment wounds to the devastating loss of my mother to cancer. For years, I battled persistent thoughts of suicide and, at one point, found myself entangled with the Italian mafia through a relationship with a Capo’s niece in New York City.
There was a long period of emotional disconnection from my family. However, in the midst of it all, I began seeking healing through reading inspirational and faith-based books. I firmly believe that, even in our darkest moments, God assigns us angels here on Earth — and I’ve been incredibly blessed to have many.
I am forever grateful to my grandmother Isabel Torres, my best friend Prophet Frankie Diaz, and the ministry family and leadership of The Way — Ministers Donna, Raben, Walter, Hykia, and Josue. Others who have been instrumental in my journey include Dr. Wendy Delgado, Bishop of Cincinnati and musical producer Kevin Whitson (also author and clothing diplomat WHITSNOFF), spiritual mentor Apostle Jesus M. Bermudez, Rabbi Sarah Hadassah Bat Zion (Lillian Vargas, Hebrew Sephardic Union, Lion of Judah IntL), Rabbi Yosef Marquez (WMEK), Bishop Francisco Torres and his wife Pastor Barbara, Pastor Aaron Cuevas, Prophet Wendy Matos, and Rev. Dr. Luis E. Boya (retired U.S. Border Patrol Supervisor and CEO of Radio Virtud 107.3 FM, Ciudad Juarez, MX).
Above all, my children — Kaleb Levi, Hope Zion, Gabrielle (and my granddaughter, expected in December 2025), and Gabriel — have been my greatest source of strength. Even through severe health battles, including a near-death experience with pancreatitis, they’ve given me a reason to keep going.
Though I still face ongoing health challenges, I stand today by the grace of God and the unwavering prayers, love, and support of those I’ve mentioned. They’ve helped me hold on — and for that, I am endlessly thankful.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Thank you for the opportunity. I’m a multifaceted creative and servant leader with a passion for impact. I’m an accomplished author of over 30 published books, a recording artist, blogger, spiritual counselor, and mentor. I also serve as a chaplain for both the Houston Police Department and the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Department, which allows me to provide spiritual and emotional support to first responders and the communities they serve.
As the founder and leader of The Way International and the R.I.O.T. (Righteous Invasion of Truth) Network, I’ve been committed to equipping individuals for personal, spiritual, and leadership transformation. My work blends faith, practical wisdom, and creative expression to reach people where they are — whether that’s through music, literature, ministry, or marketplace influence.
One of the highlights of my journey so far has been the incredible honor of being featured on the Billboard screen in Times Square on August 6, 2025 — a testament to how far God’s grace and resilience can take someone. I’m also deeply proud of my collaboration with the legendary Les Brown on our book The Comeback, which shares powerful narratives of overcoming adversity — a theme that deeply resonates with my own life story.
What sets me apart is the intersection of my lived experience with my message. I don’t just teach transformation — I’ve lived it. From surviving personal trauma and emotional loss, to navigating the world of ministry, music, and business, I bring a real, raw, and relatable voice to everything I do. I believe my assignment is to not just inspire people, but to ignite purpose within them — and equip them to rise.
Any big plans?
Looking ahead, my focus is on expanding both the reach and impact of my work — globally and generationally. I’m currently developing new book projects, including a follow-up to The Comeback, continuing the collaboration with influential voices in personal development and faith-based leadership. I’m also in the process of launching a multimedia platform that combines podcasting, music, and digital mentorship to reach younger audiences who are hungry for authenticity, healing, and hope.
As the leader of The Way International and R.I.O.T. Network, we’re planning to plant new training hubs and leadership academies in underserved communities — places where restoration and opportunity are desperately needed. I also look forward to strengthening partnerships with law enforcement and civic leaders through chaplaincy and community-based initiatives, bridging faith and service in practical ways.
Another exciting milestone is preparing for the release of new music and visual content, further blending my creative gifts with my message. And, on a personal level, I’m eagerly anticipating the birth of my granddaughter this December 2025— a reminder that legacy isn’t just what we do, but who we pour into.
Big changes? Definitely. But all rooted in the same mission: to be a voice of restoration, a builder of people, and a vessel for God’s grace — locally, nationally, and internationally.
Pricing:
- $20 or less per book on Average, available on Amazon
- An honorarium that we can agree upon for speaking engagements
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.esbyah.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/navi_of_yahweh
- Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/ESBYAH
- LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/esbyahsuccess
- Email: esbyah@gmail.com
- Youtube: https://www.YouTube.com/@esbyah
- Yelp: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/esbyah/bless-me
- Amazon: https://amazon.com/author/eliyahushmuel
- Other: https://esbyah.blogspot.com/
Image Credits
ESBYAH
