Shai Held

Shai Held, philosopher, biblical scholar, and rabbi who leads the Hadar Institute, discusses Jewish theology and love. He explores Hebrew ideas of love, love as spiritual work, memory’s role in empathy and revenge, loving enemies in practical ways, and bearing witness to mutual pain in the Israel/Palestine story.

Rabbi Shai Held discusses how Judaism is about love, challenging the misconception of it being solely about law. They explore love in Judaism, forgiveness in Christianity/Judaism, love as an existential posture, and the biblical story of Hagar. Additionally, they touch on interfaith dialogue and Jewish-Christian relations.

Shai Held, President and Dean of Hadar Institute and acclaimed author, delves into the profound relationship between love and law in Judaism. He discusses how the Torah fosters community love and the joy in rituals. The conversation explores the complexity of divine love, contrasting Jewish and Christian views, and highlights personal experiences that challenge definitions of love. Alongside humorous banter about Jewish food and love songs, Held emphasizes community responsibility and the ethical implications of loving our neighbors and adversaries.

Shai Held, a biblical scholar and theologian, dives deep into how scripture can guide us through today's climate crisis. He discusses our intrinsic connection to nature as depicted in Genesis, challenging the view of humanity as separate from the environment. Held emphasizes farming as a divine vocation and the balance between significance and stewardship. He critiques traditional interpretations of Genesis, urging a reevaluation of our responsibilities to the planet, while highlighting the scriptural call for justice and care in governance.

Rabbi Shai Held, an insightful author exploring love within Jewish life, dives deep into the complexities of faith and tradition. He challenges the notion that religion provides clear answers, suggesting instead that some questions are meant to linger. Rabbi Held discusses the vibrant nature of Jewish laws, the intertwining of duty and joy, and the profound commitment of love in Jewish practice. He emphasizes reclaiming Jewish identity, human dignity, and the importance of self-love in fostering true empathy.