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The Tikvah Podcast

David Bashevkin on Orthodox Jews and the American Religious Revival

Feb 21, 2025
David Bashevkin, the Director of Education for NCSY and an expert on modern Orthodoxy, dives into the transformation of American Orthodox Judaism. He discusses how contemporary issues like wellness culture influence spiritual dynamics. Bashevkin explores the evolving identities within Orthodox communities, the balance between tradition and modernity, and the quest for authentic religious experiences among younger generations. He also touches on the complex relationship with Zionism and the deep questions regarding Israel's future.
01:00:13

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Quick takeaways

  • The current American spiritual revival is characterized by a complex departure from traditional Christianity, influencing various societal practices beyond recognized religious forms.
  • Modern Orthodoxy in America has evolved to integrate Enlightenment ideals, promoting a dual curriculum that merges secular education with religious commitment.

Deep dives

The Revival of Spiritual Energy

There is a notable revival of spiritual energy in America, characterized by a departure from conventional Christianity, which is increasingly in decline. This new spiritual phenomenon does not align neatly with traditional religious structures and encompasses various practices, including wellness culture and identity politics. Many individuals find sanctity in these non-conventional spiritual expressions, leading to a complex and fractured landscape of belief. As a result, American Orthodoxy faces the challenge of addressing these new dynamics and understanding how they influence its communities.

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