Episode 43: Imam Abdullah Antepli "May the Sons of Abraham Unite"

Episode 43: Imam Abdullah Antepli "May the Sons of Abraham Unite"

Author: Ben Koren and Benzi Siouni | A Geonic-Maimonidean Approach to Torah Through the Ages and Today February 5, 2023 Duration: 57:00
In a thought-provoking discussion with Imam Abdullah Antepli, he talks about growing up in a secular family in Turkey and overcoming the Antisemitic indoctrination in his youth. He responds to the notion that Jew hatred is baked into Christianity and Islam and, therefore, unstoppable. We delve into the similarities between Judaism and Islam, our complicated history living together, contextualizing Zionism, the promising impact of the Abraham Accords, and pay tribute to his friend and our inspiration, the late Rabbi Jonathan Sacks zt'l. With a focus on hope and mutual respect, we discuss if there can be a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and discuss the importance of building bridges between Jewish and Muslim communities. Additionally, he clarifies misconceptions about Islam and addresses whether it should be moderated, reformed, or neither. The fact is, religious fundamentalism is a problem that plagues all 3 Abrahamic faiths, which can only be solved by understanding each other and promoting more dialogue. We also talk about the power of Shabbat and the Imam's call for singing a "new song" of peace. Don't miss this enlightening conversation between 2 sons of Abraham, a Jew and a Muslim.

In a world of soundbites, JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and Tradition offers a different space: long, thoughtful conversations that delve into the questions and concepts often passed over. Lifelong friends Ben Koren and Benzi Siouni host this series, bringing together voices from across disciplines-religious thinkers, scientists, historians-to examine Jewish wisdom through a specific lens. Their approach is rooted in the Geonic-Maimonidean tradition, a classical stream of Jewish thought that champions reason alongside deep faith, and they thoughtfully engage with the modern intellectual legacy of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks. This isn't about simple answers, but about rediscovering the robust, foundational frameworks of Torah that can speak to contemporary complexity. Each episode aims to build a bridge between ancient text and modern perplexity, reigniting a genuine passion for tradition by taking it seriously as a living, intellectual pursuit. The resulting discussions in this podcast are nuanced, patient, and designed for anyone who feels that standard explanations have left gaps in their understanding. You'll hear explorations where tradition meets rigorous inquiry, where historical context illuminates enduring principles, and where the goal is a more coherent, personally owned Jewish life. It’s a guide for the curious, the skeptical, and the devoted, all seeking a deeper anchor in timeless wisdom.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 139

JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and Tradition
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