Answers WithHeld Why Do Bad Things Happen?
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Apr 15, 2024 
Aviva Richman, a thoughtful rabbi focused on compassionate responses to suffering, joins Shai Held to tackle the difficult question of why bad things happen. They share personal memories, highlighting how being present can offer solace during times of pain. The conversation explores the role of compassion in parenting, providing children with the tools to navigate grief and adversity. Richman reflects on divine love and the complexities of prayer amid loss, emphasizing the nurturing presence of God and the importance of resilience in the face of life's challenges.
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Childhood Trauma and Presence
- Aviva Richman recalls being tearful and confused at age 12 about the Waco tragedy.
- Her father's comforting presence mattered more than answers to her questions about God and violence.
Presence as Divine Mediation
- Being present with someone hurting mediates God's presence.
- Our experience of God is deeply shaped by our experience of our parents and relationships.
Personal Loss and Prayer Questions
- Shai Held's father died suddenly when he was 12, sparking challenging questions about God and prayer.
- He learned petitionary prayer is not about influencing outcomes but still found it initially unfulfilling.