18Forty Podcast
Shulem Deen: Faith, Without Faith (OTD Series Re-Release)
May 13, 2025
Shulem Deen, author of the memoir All Who Go Do Not Return, shares his transformative journey from the Ultra-Orthodox community to a more secular mindset. He discusses the struggle of balancing personal beliefs with communal expectations, shedding light on the often painful process of breaking free from tradition. Deen also explores the emotions tied to writing about these experiences, emphasizing the difficulty of reconciling empathy and anger. His insights into the complexities of identity and belonging provide a profound perspective on modern Jewish life.
59:31
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Quick takeaways
- Shulem Deen explores the complexities of balancing personal beliefs with community expectations while navigating the challenges faced by ex-Ultra-Orthodox individuals.
- Deen emphasizes the importance of understanding true Jewish values that can transcend societal norms and contribute positively to both religious and secular lives.
Deep dives
Shulam Deen's Background and Community Transition
Shulam Deen grew up in a Hasidic community in Borough Park, closely aligned with Satmar ideologies but exhibiting some liberal traits. His teenage years saw him transition to Skver Hasidism, where he married and raised five children. Over time, he began to grapple with his beliefs and the principles of his community, ultimately realizing that he no longer identified as a believer. This journey of questioning and exploration culminated in a significant life change when he was expelled from New Square by the rabbinical court, prompting a move with his family to Muncie, where he tried to maintain a religious lifestyle for a few more years before ultimately deciding to leave the community altogether.
