#TrendingJewish 10: One Man’s Crusade Against Chosenness

January 26th, 2018 · 34 mins 8 secs

About this Episode

Filmmaker Joshua Gippin discusses his antipathy to the idea that Jews are the chosen people and his journey that led him to embrace Reconstructionist Judaism, which rejects the idea of chosenness. The directory of The Chosen People? A Film About Jewish Identity also examines the challenge of presenting multiple perspectives on chosenness while holding such a strong personal perspective.

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This podcast is produced by Reconstructing Judaism. Visit us at ReconstructingJudaism.org.

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Episode Links

  • Choosing to Examine the ‘Chosen People’ Idea | Reconstructionist Judaism — Within the first minute of his documentary “The Chosen People? A Film about Jewish Identity,” filmmaker Josh Gippin looks straight into the camera and tells the audience exactly where he’s coming from: He’s by no means an unbiased journalist.
  • Film Trailer | The Chosen People? | Joshua Gippin — This film thoughtfully illuminates the complexities of Jewish identity today. Multiple voices are allowed to speak, and each sheds light on the history, theology, and debates surrounding Judaism - its faith and people - today. Jew and non-Jew alike will profit from this film!  - Rabbi David Ellenson, Chancellor Emeritus of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion
  • The Birth of Amelia Rose - YouTube — Dedicated to my wife, Shane, who carried Amelia for 9 months, birthed her, and now spends her days breastfeeding. I am eternally grateful.