Amy-Jill Levine

Amy-Jill Levine, an expert in Jewish studies, sheds light on the often-misunderstood Pharisees, revealing their critical role in Jewish society and scripture. She discusses the historical roots of the Pharisees, tracing their significance from the Maccabean period to the New Testament. Levine challenges common stereotypes, highlighting how political and cultural contexts have shaped their portrayal. The conversation encourages a nuanced understanding of their contributions to both Judaism and early Christianity.

Rabbi Zalman Kastel, educator who builds empathy through school programs; Geoffrey Levey, political scientist studying modern antisemitism; Adis Duderija, Islam scholar on Quranic interpretation; Magda Teter, historian of medieval anti-Jewish myths; Amy-Jill Levine, New Testament scholar on Christian–Jewish relations. They explore religious texts, medieval myths, modern political shifts, interpretive choices in Islam and Christianity, and practical education strategies.

Dr. Amy-Jill Levine, a distinguished professor in New Testament and Jewish Studies, explores how non-Christians can find value in Jesus and the Gospels. She emphasizes the universal ethical messages of Jesus' teachings and their relevance to diverse faiths. The discussion tackles the complexities of interpreting the New Testament, urging thoughtful engagement with biblical narratives. Levine advocates for respectful dialogue on differing perspectives and highlights the enriching experience of studying religious texts outside one's faith, fostering personal and communal growth.