Meir Soloveichik The Haggadah—A Political Classic Ep. 1: The DNA of the Haggadah—Politics and Theology
Apr 5, 2020
Dive into the Passover Haggadah as a vital text blending monotheism and societal freedom. Discover how the Exodus story shapes Jewish political thought and the emotional journeys of immigrant extras in 'The Ten Commandments.' Learn about the duality of freedom through negative and positive liberty in Jewish thought. The defiance of Hebrew midwives against Pharaoh is explored, linking ancient narratives with modern concepts of liberty and universal moral law. This exploration reveals the ongoing significance of freedom in Jewish tradition.
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Jewish Extras in "The Ten Commandments"
- In 1923, DeMille's silent film The Ten Commandments featured Jewish extras deeply moved by reenacting the Exodus.
- Their emotional response highlighted the story's personal and political resonance, blurring the lines between their heritage and the American dream.
The Haggadah as Political Philosophy
- The Haggadah is a unique work of Jewish political thought, exploring themes of freedom, covenant, and the nature of a good society.
- Unlike most rabbinic writings, it directly addresses political philosophy.
Intertwined Themes of Freedom
- The Haggadah intertwines two core themes: the political journey from slavery to freedom and the religious journey from paganism to monotheism.
- This emphasizes the inherent link between political and theological liberation.