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Tablet Studios

How to be a Jew ... who claims Israel

Feb 5, 2025
Ben M. Freeman, an author focused on Jewish identity, shares insights from his new book on the Jewish people’s indigenous ties to Israel. He discusses the complexities of Jewish identity in modern society, especially after the October 7th events. Freeman also reflects on his upbringing as a Jewish individual in Glasgow and the cultural richness of Jewish heritage. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing duality in identity, navigating the evolving political landscape, and fostering dialogue within the community.
39:04

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The podcast highlights the multifaceted nature of Jewish identity, emphasizing its cultural, ethnic, and historical dimensions rather than just religious affiliation.
  • It explores the concept of Jewish indigeneity, asserting the deep-rooted connection of Jews to Israel as part of their civilization and heritage.

Deep dives

Identity and Cultural Roots

The podcast discusses the complexities of Jewish identity, emphasizing the importance of cultural roots beyond religious affiliation. The speaker reflects on the challenges faced in defining their heritage, noting how most peers identified with their ethnic backgrounds while they struggled to convey their own multifaceted identity as a Jew. This notion is encapsulated in the exploration of how Jewish identity encompasses elements of culture, ethnicity, and civilization, rather than being solely a religious designation. The dialogue highlights that being Jewish involves a rich tapestry of traditions, practices, and communal ties that resonate deeply in personal experiences.

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