The thought worlds of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks

Abstract

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks’ contributions to Jewish thought are massive and breathtaking.They span works of philosophy, parshanut , history, and homiletics, along with commentarieson the Siddur, Mahzor , and Haggada. Countless Jews know his name; many of them,particularly among the Orthodox, have read his works, heard him speak, perused his parasha sheets, regularly used his siddur , and viewed or heard his online conversations. He addressed robustly issues of paramount concern for Jews: anti-Semitism, Jewish identity, the Shoah, Israel, the family, unity, community, and continuity. Here was a man who had little formal Jewish learning until his 20s and yet — by harnessing brilliance, vision, commitment.and stunning eloquence — sensitized hearts, expanded minds, and animated Jewish life. Hisreaders and audiences always emerged edified and inspired. Those who met him were greeted warmly and witnessed his capacity to engage. All are saddened by his passing,which sprang upon us so quickly. (from Introduction)