Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are that of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Union for Traditional Judaism, unless otherwise indicated.
In his article in the St. Louis Jewish Light, Rabbi Seth Gordon discusses the Jewish values of tolerance and diversity in the context of a debate on whether the St. Louis chapter of J Street should be granted membership in the Jewish Community Relations Council of St. Louis.
Divisiveness is a tricky issue. Sincerely held positions often result in conflict among free-thinking people. Our Mishnah and Midrash is replete with differing views. …
The word tolerance — as far as I know — does not appear in the Torah or in rabbinic teaching (Mishnah, Midrash, and Gemara), but the concept is evident in Torah law and narrative. …
In this case, are there limits to tolerance? If tolerance means suspending our thinking as if no views (or behaviors) are beyond the pale, it is unwise and dangerous. …
Read more at https://stljewishlight.org/opinion/jcrc-j-street-divisiveness-and-tolerance/
Enjoying UTJ Viewpoints?
UTJ relies on your support to promote an open-minded approach to Torah rooted in classical sources and informed by modern scholarship. Please consider making a generous donation to support our efforts.
Rabbi Seth D Gordon received his rabbinic s'michah from Rav David Weiss Halivini from the UTJ and has served congregations in Annapolis, Maryland, Bethpage, New York, and St Louis, Missouri. His emphasis is Jewish education. Rabbi Gordon has worked across the board, co-founding a day school in Annapolis, and founded the now defunct African American-Jewish coalition of Anne Arundel County. He also taught in a Jewish Day School on Long Island, NY. He serves on the executive board of the UTJ and is the past Chairman of MORASHAH, its rabbinical organization. He and his wife are blessed with five children and eleven grandchildren; two of their sons, their wives, and five of their grandchildren live in Israel.