Reviews for A Passion for Truth

The average rating for A Passion for Truth based on 2 reviews is 5 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2019-02-23 00:00:00 Fredrik Silvearv Years ago, just after graduating college, I attended a weekend retreat on Jewish mysticism with my roommate. It was a waste of time and money (more about that some other time). At the beginning of the first session the rabbi gave us riddle. Three rabbis entered and exited paradise. The first one came out insane. The second entered and cut down all the trees in paradise. The third, the Baal Shev Tov, walked out serene. What was going on? After a few seconds, I raised my hand and reported, that the rabbis saw themselves as they really were. The first two not being honest in this life, could not stand who they were and had radical negative reactions to the revelation. But the Baal Shev Tov wasn't shocked. Needless to say, I got a dirty look from the rabbi, I guess I was too young, and not Jewish to have figured out the answer. I messed up his big reveal. Now to the book. Since the 2016 elections our country has been awash in mendacity. Heschel tells of the Hasidic rabbi known as the Kotzker and Soren Kierkegaard and their critique of their contemporary religious milieu based on the dishonesty of their fellow believers and they questioned their own beliefs for their veracity. Of course, they were screaming into the wind. For them honesty was the greatest virtue. Heschel gives many examples and stories from both men what it means to live an honest life in God's presence and absence. They also don't promise any great spiritual rewards for honesty, rather frustration and sadness.

Review # 2 was written on 2019-09-02 00:00:00 Ray Boeke Heavy reading Heavy reading but worthwhile. I have enjoyed Herschel for many years and hope to read most of his writings excellent