A unique book that reexamines the power of interfaith spirituality to fuel the fires of progressive activism.
A unique book that reexamines the power of interfaith spirituality to fuel the fires of progressive activism.
Civil rights, Philanthropy & charity, Religious
In The Soul of Activism, author and activist Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz, gives a unique re-examination of the power of interfaith spirituality to fuel the fires of progressive activism.
'Religion' in the public sphere has been claimed by far-right ideologues while progressives, turned off by the hypocrisy of the religious influence on contemporary policy, have lost out on the experience of religious community. As a result, progressives are losing control of political discourse because they neither grasp nor trust the universal and invigorating language and practice of religion when expressed productively for social justice. Progressive activists must find these missing spiritual tools, cultivate compassion, and lead affirmative change in their communities.
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5 out of 5 stars: Rav Shmuly is a new wave of social justice leader. With a vibrant pen and an agile mind, Rabbi Yanklowitz takes the broad view of what spiritual activism means for the moment. Things are challenging out there, but Rav Shmuly argues passionately about the increased need to reach out outside of a person's community and embrace others. There is no time to be selfish and stick to one's comfort zone. Social action is messy and difficult, but so rewarding when an initiative is seen through to completion. An inspirational book and one that every activist--from the Civil Rights movement veterans to budding disrupters--should read. ~ Mycroft Bernstein, Amazon
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars. Wow, what an amazing book. There are many spiritual books and activist books but none that put the two subjects together. There is a statement that spoke loudly to me. “And there comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must do it because Conscience tells him it is right. (Kindle location 129). As an activist, sometimes it is difficult to remain balanced. The book is easy to read and has exercises for the reader to do. They are as simple as spending five minutes writing down and exploring thoughts, anxieties, fears, hopes and dreams. ~ Dawn Thomas (Reviewer), NetGalley
It's so critical, in these times of regressive and oppressive national politics, to rely on our spiritual inner core to provide the resilience we need to continue to fight for, and win justice and equity for all. Rabbi Yanklowitz calls on all spiritual people to join in this effort, and provides an important resource for us to fight from a place of peace and strength. ~ Professor Saru Jayaraman, Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Restaurant Opportunities Centers United (ROC United)
A young hip well-dressed down-to-earth Modern Orthodox rabbi and teacher with connections in so many areas; he is a really brilliant and inspiring guy. ~ Mayim Bialik
Rav Shmuly is a leading voice calling upon the Jewish community to pursue justice. ~ Rabbi Jonah Pesner
Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz’s name has become synonymous with the call for ethical renewal and social justice within the American Jewish community. ~ Professor Jonathan D. Sarna
One of the most compelling rabbis around! ~ Rabbi Rick Jacobs, President of the Union for Reform Judaism
