"In a world increasingly laden with unspeakable crimes against humanity all in the name of pious compliance, the lameness and lethal silence of the ecclesia are disillusioning. More is expected of religion. Does religion have the capacity, or more poignantly, does it have the will to counter the suppressive culture of obedience with the culture of moral courage and compassion? Can it motivate its disciples to shout 'No ' in the presence of killers of the dream?"
from the Introduction
In this passionate meditation on the human condition, Rabbi Harold Schulweis challenges us to overthrow our current religious climate in which conscienceless obedience is honored and moral dissent condemned. He calls on religion to provide the resources needed to resist immoral authority, making way for courage and conscienceour responsibility to justice, compassion, and moral sensibilityto blossom.
Drawing from sacred texts, philosophical writings, contemporary literature and personal experience, Schulweis builds a foundation for conscience rooted in Jewish tradition. He draws on the actions of scriptural figures to illustrate acts of moral conscience not as defying God's will but as confronting divine authority with awe and respect.
Provocative, honest, and wisethese reflections of a great spiritual leader will lead you on a quest to find your own capacity for moral conscience.
