Finding One’s Jewish Identity Through Spiritual Study

Susan Baskin’s narrative of her journey of self-discovery as a Jew (“Out of Hiding,” Oct. 27) gives the impression that the turning point in this journey occurred when she carried a sign handed to her at a Westwood rally protesting anti-Israel terrorism. I think a closer reading of her essay reveals that she experienced her most important turning point much earlier--when she delved into the study of Judaism. As she says, “My study of Judaism fed my mind and my spirit.” I believe it is the convictions and insights that such a study formed that generated in her the courage and commitment that has motivated Jews to stay Jewish since antiquity. Without such study, she would not have developed this commitment.

Larry Selk

Los Angeles

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I find my Jewish soul best expressed in the defense of freedom and justice and human rights no matter the victim, and I believe the slogan that came out of the Holocaust, “Never again,” refers to the mandate to fight for justice wherever it is needed. Baskin could just as easily find her Jewish voice in the movement for a just peace between Arabs and Jews. Those of us who oppose the brutal Israeli occupation also take issue with the targeting of innocent civilians, be they Arabs or Jews. As more and more Israeli officials openly discuss the “transfer” of millions of Palestinians, one wonders if there are Israelis truly connected to the lessons of the Diaspora who will hide our Arab brothers and sisters when the authorities come to round them up!

Emma Rosenthal

Executive Director

The Writing Empowerment Project

Baldwin Park