Particularism and Universalism in Traditional Rabbinic Sources: Taught by Temple Sinai Member Bruce Weinstock

The tension between Universalism and Particularism is a dilemma for modern American Jews and has been for Jews throughout the ages. Our tradition stresses that all humans are made in the image of God. According to Isaiah we are meant to be “a light unto all the nations.” However, we have numerous traditions and rituals which stress separateness and uniqueness of the Jewish people. How do we negotiate this tension? In this course we will explore traditional rabbinic sources and a few modern rabbinic thinkers which inform how to negotiate this tension. We will explore and discuss relevant texts regarding how to allocate tzedakah, how to educate children, where to locate a home, how we dress, with whom we eat and a number of other topics which result from this tension.

Sponsored by the Temple Sinai Adult Learning Committee.