

Judaism is About Love (Shai Held) part 1 Ep. 178
Dec 12, 2024
Rabbi Dr. Shai Held, president and dean of the Hadar Institute, explores the profound connection between love and law in Judaism. He argues that Jewish commandments are not mere rules but pathways to cultivate love for God and others. Through examples, he illustrates how practices like loving the stranger embody this belief. The discussion also highlights the importance of Jewish rituals and their role in fostering community through love. Held’s blend of traditional and modern interpretations offers an accessible glimpse into Jewish spirituality.
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Law as Love
- In Judaism, law isn't opposed to love, but rather a manifestation of it.
- This challenges the common Christian dichotomy between law and gospel.
Accessible Jewish Thought
- Shai Held's book, "Judaism is About Love," offers an accessible entry point into Jewish thought.
- It emphasizes the joy of being commanded, a concept often foreign to some Christian traditions.
Torah and Loving Kindness
- The Talmud states, "The beginning of Torah is loving kindness and the end of Torah is loving kindness."
- This suggests that the Torah's purpose is to manifest love.