Rabbi Lewenthal: "Don't Isolate Yourself, Engage with Society"
Translated & summarized from Arutz Sheva by baba
Rabbi Elazar Lewenthal, in a video commentary, stated that social isolation is not the Jewish way, contrasting it with the story of Noah's Ark. He explained that humans are social beings with a responsibility to influence their environment positively. The rabbi advised developing awareness of social influences and discerning between good and bad to remain engaged and impactful.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Rabbi Elazar Lewenthal stated that social isolation contradicts Jewish teachings.
- He explained that humans are social beings who benefit from community connection.
- Rabbi Lewenthal stressed the importance of influencing society positively.
- He advised developing awareness and discernment regarding social influences.
- The rabbi suggested choosing good influences and rejecting negative ones.
Rabbi Elazar Lewenthal, in a video commentary related to the weekly Torah portion of Noah and drawing from his reserve duty experience, argues that social isolation is not the solution to navigating societal pressures. He explains that while the desire to withdraw from external influences is understandable, it contradicts Jewish teachings. "Social pressure is a terribly frightening thing," Rabbi Lewenthal stated, noting that individuals fear losing control over their decisions when influenced by society. This fear can lead to a desire to build a "big ark like Noah's" and retreat from the world.
However, Rabbi Lewenthal emphasizes that Judaism advocates a different approach, one that encourages engagement with the community rather than withdrawal. He cites two primary reasons for this: the inherently social nature of humans, where connection can be beneficial, and the responsibility individuals have to positively influence their surroundings. "We also want to influence, and you cannot influence from within the ark," he stressed.
To maintain personal autonomy while remaining part of society, Rabbi Lewenthal advises developing awareness of social influences and exercising discernment. "The solution is first and foremost to be aware of society's influences on us, to filter them, choose the good and reject the bad," he concluded. This approach allows individuals to remain within society, be positively influenced, and also exert a positive influence to improve the world.
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