Rabbi Ken Ehrlich, Librarian
Tablets Shattered
We’ve added a new book to our collection that I think many congregants would like to read: Joshua Liefer, Tablets Shattered: The End of an American Jewish Century and the Future of Jewish Life.
Liefer’s thesis is that the 20th century witnessed the growth of an American Jewish community that was, at its peak, the largest, most prosperous, and arguably the most accomplished Jewish community in history. Yet, a century later, our community is in inexorable decline. Why? Because the three strong pillars that formed the foundations of American Jewish identity have crumbled beyond repair:
1. Our commitment to liberalism, social reform, and universal justice – what we often term “tikkun olam”;
2. Our belief in American “exceptionalism”
3. Our uncritical commitment to Israel and acceptance (and defense) of Israeli politics and policies.
Liefer offers many reasons for the collapse of these three pillars of American identity. And he criticizes the “establishment” organizations of American Jewish life – the American rabbinical seminaries; national organizations such as AIPAC, and especially the Conference of Presidents of American Jewish Organizations; local Federation leaders; rabbis and synagogue boards of all Jewish denominations – because we chose to avoid the painful but necessary process of self-assessment, self-criticism, and radical change.
It is now too late to save the American Jewish community we once knew. The American Jewish community that will take its place will no doubt be smaller, less creative, less dynamic, and therefore less influential than its predecessor. For better or worse, future Jewish “centuries” will be shaped in and by Israel.
Joshua Liefer is an accomplished journalist and a PhD student at Yale. His book is well-researched, and well-written. We may or may not agree with his conclusions. But his book challenges us to challenge ourselves.
Perhaps we can discuss it – or argue about it –when we meet in the Library.