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Smoke Hole Sessions

EP 6: Helping the Peacemakers, feat. Ariel Burger

Jun 9, 2021
In a thought-provoking discussion, Rabbi Ariel Burger, an expert in conflict resolution and author of "Witness, Lessons from Elie Wiesel's Classroom," emphasizes the wisdom found in Jewish mysticism. He explores how ancient stories can guide us in addressing current societal issues. Ariel encourages listeners to assess whether what they read in the news supports peacemaking efforts, particularly in the context of Gaza. He also reflects on the interconnection between art, community, and creativity, highlighting the transformative power of storytelling.
01:00:45

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Ariel Burger emphasizes that in chaotic times, a different kind of madness can reveal new paths to creative solutions.
  • The podcast reminds listeners of the power of ancient narratives in fostering understanding and responsibility toward contemporary issues.

Deep dives

The Joy of Sabbath as a Divine Experience

The podcast shares a story about the Baal Shem Tov, a Hasidic master, who aimed to illuminate the true essence of Sabbath for his disciples. The disciples anticipated a grand revelation but instead witnessed a humble couple joyfully celebrating the Sabbath with simple food, revealing that the experience of joy is what encapsulates this holy time. This moment serves to illustrate that genuine happiness and spiritual connection can emerge from the simplest acts of love and togetherness. The Baal Shem Tov's lesson highlights that true richness comes from the heart rather than material wealth.

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