We can start with what we agree on and then, vociferously and passionately, disagree about how to get there. If we keep the bigger picture not only in mind, but also as part of the conversation, we can end up as greater friends and co-seekers.
It has been noted that the redemption from Egypt is attributed entirely to the Almighty. The Israelites themselves were relatively passive in the process of gaining their freedom. But the ultimate redemption will require us to participate actively. While Hashem will be the guarantor, we will need to assume personal responsibility.
We should utilize the categories of kiddush Hashem (sanctification of the Name) and hillul Hashem (desecration of the Name). These categories legitimately place pressure to make halakhic choices and interpretations that inspire non-Jews to value Torah.
Rabbi Isaac Sassoon's article focuses on rabbinic texts and attitudes on homosexuality, among other topics.
The Song of Songs contains some of the most tender expressions of love and
intimacy in the Bible. On its literal level, the Song expresses the mutual love of a man and a
woman. From ancient times, traditional interpreters have almost universally agreed that there
is an allegorical or symbolic layer of meaning as well.
Maimonidean messianic universalism and naturalism teaches us: hope. We can hope for (and work toward) a world in which different nations and cultures can value their own contributions to the human mosaic without diminishing the value of others—without wholly “otherizing” the other. If we can hope, we need not despair; the human condition is not necessarily tragic. That message alone justifies the continued allegiance of the Jewish people to the Torah of Israel and to their destiny.
The story of Pessah is a realistic/optimistic story. It tells candidly about slavery, hatred, cruelty, loss of human dignity. But it also tells of redemption, freedom, God’s providence, human development. As it relates to the national history of the people of Israel, it also relates to each one of us.
On Tuesday, April 8, from 8:00-9:00 pm ET, Rabbi Hayyim Angel will teach a class, "Written and Oral Tradition in the Haggadah."
This class is free and open to the public, and is sponsored by Ben Porat Yeshiva Day School in Paramus, New Jersey.
Here is the Zoom link:
Yes, it was (and hopefully still is) possible for an Orthodox rabbi and a Reform rabbi to study Torah together, to work together on behalf of the Jewish community and Israel, to enjoy a genuine friendship. In an increasingly divisive world, we gain from friendships that overcome differences and focus on shared values.
This book is philosophically sophisticated, but its amenable style is attractive for the serious reader, whether specialist or non specialist. It is open and inclusive, and it fully deserves Yitzhak Melamed’s blurb, which states that it is “one of the best works of Jewish philosophy of recent times.”