Rabbi Angela Buchdahl

Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, Senior Rabbi of Central Synagogue and author, joins to share insights on moral accountability and the significance of the High Holy Days during conflict. She discusses the challenges of unity in a divided Jewish community, her experiences as a rabbi of color, and the role of empathy in current events. The conversation also touches on the humanitarian implications of Israel's actions in Gaza and reflections on leadership and identity in today's world. It's a thought-provoking dialogue as we approach the new year.

Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, the first East-Asian ordained rabbi and leader at Central Synagogue, explores her journey of faith and identity in her memoir. She reflects on the impact of recent events, the longing for safety within community spaces, and the necessity of nuanced views on Israel and Palestine. Angela discusses her transformation from feeling like an outsider to embracing that perspective as a source of strength. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion in fostering relationships, aiming to make Jewish wisdom accessible through her writing.

Rabbi Angela W. Buchdahl, the first Asian American rabbi and author of Heart of a Stranger, joins Jonah to delve into her unique journey of faith, identity, and belonging. They explore the challenges of feeling like an outsider and how embracing that feeling can lead to empathy. Rabbi Buchdahl reflects on growing up with multiple identities, the lessons from her community-oriented mother, and the importance of inclusion in Judaism. Their conversation also touches on the meaning of rituals today, significantly highlighting how to connect with others while navigating the complexities of communal identity.

Rabbi Angela Buchdahl discusses intermarriage in the Jewish community, emphasizing the need for acceptance and embracing. She challenges the pressure to marry within the Jewish community and shares the high intermarriage rate among non-Orthodox Jews. The chapter also discusses the importance of making conversion accessible and explores the essence of being Jewish. The speaker highlights the significance of unity and loyalty within the Jewish community.

Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, Senior Rabbi at Central Synagogue, discusses her journey as the first Asian American rabbi and the challenges she faced. She shares insights on combating rising antisemitism, the importance of community, and the need to unplug from devices. Buchdahl emphasizes how her multifaith background has shaped her views on spirituality and leadership. She also highlights the significance of Shabbat as a time for reflection and connection, advocating for a society that values empathy and understanding across divisions.