Abraham Joshua Heschel

This biography explores the life of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, highlighting his commitment to social justice and the intersection of faith and progressive politics during the 1960s civil rights movement.

Abraham Joshua Heschel is a compelling biography that delves into the life of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, a significant figure in Jewish thought and a staunch advocate for social justice. Written by Julian Zelizer, this book is part of the esteemed Jewish Lives series and explores how Heschel became a symbol of the union between faith and activism. His passionate involvement in the civil rights movement, notably the 1965 Selma march alongside Martin Luther King Jr., is a testament to his belief that spirituality and social responsibility are deeply intertwined.

The biography traces Heschel's formative years, beginning with his childhood in Warsaw, where he was immersed in Hasidic teachings. It highlights his educational journey through the vibrant intellectual landscape of 1920s and 1930s Berlin, which shaped his philosophical outlook. A pivotal moment in his life was his relocation to the United States, where he became a professor at Hebrew Union College and the Jewish Theological Seminary. This move not only saved him from the horrors of the Holocaust but also set the stage for his influential role in American religious and political life.

Zelizer paints a rich and nuanced portrait of Heschel, emphasizing his commitment to improving the human condition through faith. The book positions Heschel at the intersection of religion and progressive politics during a transformative period in American history, illustrating his lasting impact on the relevance of progressive Jewish values in contemporary society. Through this biography, readers gain insight into the profound legacy of a man whose life and work continue to inspire social justice movements today.