Philosophy

Hillel Halkin's book delves into the topic of love, death, and immortality, touching on ancient Israelite burial practices, the concept of Sheol as an afterlife, and shifts in beliefs about immortality among later Jews.
In Leonard Cohen's song "The Future," the idea of repentance is pondered, leading to a discussion on how the concept of repentance as we know it today is not explicitly present in the Hebrew Bible but emerged later in history, particularly during the Second Temple period influenced by Hellenistic philosophy.
In this article, Aryeh Klapper reflects on his deep connection to the teachings of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik, known as "the Rav," and discusses the challenges of translating the Rav's works for a new generation.
Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook's views on culture and history reveal a nuanced perspective that transcends traditional categories like Modern Orthodoxy.
The text explores two perspectives on the concept of spirituality within the Jewish tradition.
Pinchas Peli, a renowned writer and professor of Jewish thought, played a significant role in popularizing the ideas of Abraham Joshua Heschel and Joseph B. Soloveitchik.
The discussion revolves around the importance of tone in conveying meaning and authority in religious texts, particularly focusing on the introduction of God's first public words at Mount Sinai in the Torah.
Robert Goldenberg, a Professor Emeritus of Judaic Studies, explores Jewish rituals from the Hellenistic and Roman eras, highlighting that contemporary practicing Jews would likely not recognize these ancient practices.
The text explores the story of the Akeidah (the binding of Isaac) and different interpretations of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son at God's command.
Dr. Sam Lebens, an Orthodox rabbi and philosopher, discusses his unique blend of Jewish and Western philosophies in his work, particularly influenced by Bertrand Russell's ideas.
Nietzsche's views on Jews and Judaism have sparked conflicting interpretations, with some seeing him as anti-Semitic and others as philo-Semitic.
Bernard-Henri Lévy (BHL), a prominent French intellectual known as a philosophe, explores the connection between Judaism, his personal life, and political activism in "The Genius of Judaism."
Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik's relationship with Maimonides can be seen through his reverence for the Mishneh Torah as a beloved halakhic code, which he defended passionately against detractors.
Philosopher Hannah Arendt and scientist Stanley Milgram shed light on the nature of evil in society, arguing that normal, seemingly good people can commit atrocities when influenced by social pressures.
Tzvi Sinensky responds to Rabbi Herzl Hefter's discussion on the Akeidah, highlighting two main interpretations - The Problem of Choice and The Problem of Hearing.
Avivah Gottlieb Zornberg's excerpt from "Moses: A Human Life" delves into the symbolic importance of Moses and the error of idolizing him through the narrative of the Golden Calf incident.
Ari Lamm discusses the perception of a lack of direct conversation about God within Modern Orthodox Judaism, attributing this trend to a broader pragmatic approach in American religious thought, focusing on practical implications of belief in God.
Professor Gabriel Motzkin, a philosopher and outgoing director of the Van Leer Jerusalem Institute, delves into the intersection of religion and scientific progress, a topic of his expertise.
Rabbi J. David Bleich, a prominent scholar known for his work in philosophical halachah, is praised for defining and upholding high standards in the field of English halachic writing.
The Jewish Review of Books recently held its 2nd annual conference at Yeshiva University Museum, featuring engaging discussions between prominent readers and writers like Eliot Cohen, Shai Held, Dara Horn, Meir Soloveichik, and others.
In this text, the author discusses the debate between philosophers Crescas and Rambam from the Middle Ages regarding whether God can command belief in His existence.
Leonard Cohen's album "You Want it Darker" reflects his ambivalence towards death and God, exploring themes of suffering and mortality.
Renowned singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen passed away at 82.
The article discusses the significance of Noah sending out a raven before the dove in the biblical story of the flood.
Professor Uri Ram from Ben-Gurion University explores the overlooked sociology work of renowned Jewish theologian Martin Buber during his role as the first chair in sociology in Israel in 1947.

Top authors in Philosophy

account_boxAndrew Lapin
account_boxCindy Scarr
account_boxSruli Fruchter
account_boxWarren Zev Harvey
account_boxRobert Zaretsky
account_boxNatan Slifkin
account_boxSteven Gotlib
account_boxJeremy Brown
account_boxBatya Hefter
account_boxPJ Grisar