Welcome to another episode of Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today, exploring postmodernism hosted by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman. This episode examines what scholars such as Naftali Loewenthal and Elliott Wolfson claim are the postmodern aspects of Chabad's teachings, particularly as expounded by the seventh Lubavitcher Rebbe, the late Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson.
The episode navigates the contrasting views within Chabad as explained by Loewenthal—those who interpret the Rebbe's messages about the imminent arrival of the Messiah in a literal manner, advocating for physical actions towards redemption, against those who might adopt a more metaphorical or philosophical approach, reflective, according to Loewenthal and Wolfson of postmodern thought. This divergence underscores the broader discussion on the interplay between traditional religious beliefs and pre and post modern interpretations.
A particularly intriguing aspect of this exploration is the recent event at Chabad's headquarters, 770 Eastern Parkway, where a group of students initiated what was perceived as tunneling activities beneath the synagogue. This incident captured international attention and highlighted the diverse interpretations and actions within Chabad stemming from the Rebbe's teachings about the Messiah and redemption.
The conversation is enriched by the scholarly work of Dr. Loewenthal, who posits Chabad as a postmodern movement and the Rebbe as a postmodern figure, and Elliot Wolfson, who offers an academic perspective on Chabad's theology as reflecting postmodern thought patterns. By examining these interpretations, Levi Brackman, a former Chabad Chasid, and Shaliach provide an objective yet profoundly personal version of how Chabad's theology may align with or diverge from postmodern philosophical ideas.
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.