From Enlightenment to Postmodernism: A Historical Jewish Perspective

Truths - Jewish Wisdom for Today

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," hosted by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman, listeners are invited to explore a thought-provoking journey through history, viewed through Jewish wisdom. Building on the themes discussed in the previous episode, Levi delves into the historical context of various ideologies, tracing their evolution from ancient times to the modern era.
The episode offers a unique perspective on how past beliefs and practices have shaped contemporary thought. Although not considered a historian, Rabbi Brackman brings a wealth of knowledge from his graduate studies in history and a deep interest in the subject. He provides an insightful overview of different historical periods, from Talmudic times through the medieval era, the Renaissance, the Enlightenment, and modern and postmodern periods.
The episode focuses on the Judaic viewpoint throughout these eras, highlighting how religious authorities, like rabbis and the Church, played pivotal roles in shaping societal beliefs and practices. He discusses the transition from a world deeply immersed in enchantment and superstition to one increasingly guided by reason, science, and logic. This transition is illustrated through fascinating stories from the Talmud and other historical sources, showcasing the changing perceptions of miracles, divine intervention, and the role of religious figures in society.
As the narrative progresses, the episode explores the impact of the Enlightenment on religion, particularly Judaism, and how this led to modern movements within the faith. He critically examines the consequences of the clash between religious perspectives and the rational, scientific approach of the Enlightenment, ultimately leading to the emergence of postmodernism.
This episode is a history lesson and a journey to understand the roots of present-day ideologies and beliefs. The episode encourages listeners to reflect on how past ideologies have contributed to moral and philosophical dilemmas, such as today's moral relativism. The season promises to delve deeper into these issues in upcoming episodes, offering new ways of thinking and understanding our contemporary world.
Join Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman in this enlightening episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today" as he weaves together history, religion, and philosophy, offering insights into how our past continues to shape our present and future. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking discussions in this series.

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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.