Abraham Joshua Heschel vs. Mordecai Kaplan

Attribute	Abraham Joshua Heschel	Mordecai Kaplan
Birthdate	January 11, 1907	June 11, 1881
Death date	December 23, 1972	November 8, 1983
Place of birth	Warsaw, Poland	Switzerland
Education	PhD in philosophy from University of Berlin	Rabbinical ordination from Jewish Theological Seminary
Key beliefs	Emphasis on spirituality and social justice	Focus on Jewish peoplehood and cultural identity

Background

Abraham Joshua Heschel and Mordecai Kaplan were two influential Jewish theologians who made significant contributions to Jewish thought in the 20th century. Heschel, a Polish-born American rabbi, was known for his deep spirituality and commitment to social justice. Kaplan, on the other hand, was a Lithuanian-born American rabbi who founded the Reconstructionist movement in Judaism. Despite their differences in background and approach, both Heschel and Kaplan played important roles in shaping modern Jewish thought.

Philosophical Beliefs

Abraham Joshua Heschel was a deeply spiritual thinker who believed in the importance of experiencing a personal connection with God. He emphasized the need for individuals to cultivate a sense of awe and wonder in their relationship with the divine. Heschel's writings often focused on the idea of "radical amazement," the idea that we should be constantly amazed by the beauty and complexity of the world around us.

Mordecai Kaplan, on the other hand, was more focused on the idea of Judaism as a civilization rather than just a religion. He believed that Judaism should adapt and evolve in response to changing social and cultural conditions. Kaplan's philosophy of Judaism as a civilization emphasized the importance of Jewish culture, history, and ethics in addition to religious beliefs and practices.

Approach to Tradition

Abraham Joshua Heschel had a deep respect for Jewish tradition and ritual practices. He believed that these traditions were essential for maintaining a connection to the past and preserving the spiritual heritage of the Jewish people. Heschel's approach to tradition was rooted in a sense of reverence and awe for the wisdom of previous generations.

Mordecai Kaplan, on the other hand, was more willing to challenge and reinterpret traditional Jewish practices. He believed that Judaism needed to evolve in order to remain relevant in the modern world. Kaplan's approach to tradition was more pragmatic and focused on adapting Jewish practices to meet the needs of contemporary society.

Impact on Jewish Thought

Abraham Joshua Heschel's writings on spirituality and social justice have had a lasting impact on Jewish thought. His emphasis on the importance of ethical action and his commitment to social activism continue to inspire Jews around the world. Heschel's work has been particularly influential in the areas of interfaith dialogue and civil rights.

Mordecai Kaplan's ideas about Judaism as a civilization have also had a significant impact on Jewish thought. His emphasis on the importance of Jewish culture and history has helped to shape the way that many Jews think about their identity and heritage. Kaplan's Reconstructionist movement has also played a role in promoting a more inclusive and progressive vision of Judaism.

Legacy

Abraham Joshua Heschel and Mordecai Kaplan both left behind important legacies that continue to shape Jewish thought and practice today. Heschel's emphasis on spirituality and social justice has inspired generations of Jews to work for a more just and compassionate world. His writings continue to be studied and revered by scholars and laypeople alike.

Mordecai Kaplan's Reconstructionist movement has also had a lasting impact on Jewish life. The Reconstructionist approach to Judaism, with its emphasis on tradition, culture, and ethics, has attracted a diverse group of followers who are drawn to its inclusive and progressive values. Kaplan's ideas about Judaism as a civilization have helped to broaden the definition of what it means to be Jewish in the modern world.