Recently, Reuven Kimelman published an article (in three different variants) on Abraham Joshua Heschel–his teacher and mentor, and a leading Jewish theologian and thought leader of the 20th century. I recently interviewed Professor Kimelman about his article and his work on Heschel's legacy. Listen to the interview here:
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Interview with R. Kimelman on A.J. Heschel [22:32m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download
MOSES’ PLEA ON BEHALF OF THE PEOPLE (Exodus 32)
It only took 40 days after the revelation for the people to retrograde to idol worship. Moses had assured the people he would return from his ascent up Sinai in 40 days – that is, 40 full days. When Moses failed to appear at dawn of the 40th day, the people panicked and fell to worshipping a Golden Calf. Enraged, as it were, for their bowing low to a molten image and accrediting it with their redemption from Egypt, God disowns them (referring to them as Moses’ people) and plans their punishment. He promises that Moses would supplant Abraham, become the father of a great nation to replace faithless Israel, if only he would let Him be.
More on Abraham, Moses And Elijah: A Lesson in Leadership (Part 2)
(This article was originally published in December 2001. It is here re-published by Our Learning Company.)
- What is the limit of responsibility to a community of a leader?
- Are all conflicts of interest to be resolved in favor of the community?
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