Soul Boom Do Jews Believe in Souls? Ari Shaffir’s Crisis of Faith
Feb 11, 2025
Comedian Ari Shaffir, known for his bold stand-up and insightful podcasts, joins Rainn Wilson for a candid chat about faith and mental health. They explore Ari’s shift from Orthodox Judaism to atheism, unpacking the complexities of belief and identity shaped by heritage. Ari shares his struggles with depression and the healing roles of therapy and humor. The duo also debates the impact of religion versus human constructs, all while weaving in laughter and thought-provoking insights on the mysterious nature of the soul.
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Ari Shaffir's Religious Journey
- Ari Shaffir shares his journey from Orthodox Judaism to atheism.
- He discusses his time in yeshiva, struggles with faith, and eventual embrace of a disinterested stance on religion.
Beyond Atheism
- Ari Shaffir proposes a new term for disinterest in religion, going beyond atheism.
- He compares it to indifference towards hockey, where one neither loves nor hates it but simply doesn't care.
The Golem and Down Syndrome Kids
- Ari Shaffir and Rainn Wilson discuss the concept of the golem in Jewish folklore.
- Shaffir shares an alternative theory about golems being trained Down Syndrome kids, causing Wilson to react with surprise.
