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The Book of Proverbs: A Social Justice Commentary
The Book of Proverbs, attributed to King Solomon, is a profound collection of Jewish wisdom, song, and inspiration. Yet to contemporary readers, the text can appear vague, ambiguous, and contradictory. In this refreshing and relevant commentary, Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz challenges us to find modern meaning in this ancient text. Using his signature blend of social justice practice and Jewish thought from throughout history, Rabbi Yanklowitz shows how the words of Proverbs are strikingly pertinent to issues we face today. Drawing on a wide range of sources, Rabbi Yanklowitz explores such topics as income inequality, feminism, animal rights, environmentalism, and many more. The author's commentary is paired with the full text of Proverbs-in both Hebrew and an updated, gender-accurate translation-so readers can glean their own insights.
472 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2022
24 people want to read
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September 11, 2022
One feature that I noticed immediately about this monograph was that, though his comments are prose, Yanklowitz’ writing style parallels somewhat the style of the Book of Proverbs. Throughout the commentaries, there are some thematic refrains that express his passion for social justice with subtlety. Nevertheless, he trusts his readers enough to include moments of poetry. It would be difficult for someone to remain unaffected by phrases like: “Ultimately, each of us only has one heart, and this heart is here to stay.” (78) During moments like these, his passion for social justice was overt. The overall effect balances instruction and appeal—a didactic approach as old as the Book of Proverbs!
Still, the book’s greatest asset was Yanklowitz’ postmodernist interaction with the text. His skepticism of objectivity, reason, absolute traditions and rules, unquestioning compliance with the directives of sages, and accepted metanarratives encourages readers to embrace fluidity of meaning in deciphering religious texts (esp. with respect to context), and to trust whatever “inner knowing” lives within us. Truly, a reader might find that Yanklowitz invites them to engage with a form of paradoxical realism particular to the Book of Proverbs. I know that one of the greatest gifts that Judaism has brought to my life is the fact that, rather than leading me away from faith, critical thought leads me to revelation of the Divine; riddling through seemingly contradictory injunctions in Jewish texts, like the Book of Proverbs, reconciles me to the existence of G-d. Reading Yanklowitz’ commentaries guided me back to the practical world from some semi-effable plane where my mind wandered while reading each chapter of the Book of Proverbs. Considering that the purpose of the Book of Proverbs is pragmatic application of ineffable wisdom, I think it is fair to say that Yanklowitz definitely hits his target with this work.
In fact, I sometimes found that Yanklowitz’ commentaries pointed out to me paths that may not have ended in exactly the same conclusions that he found. For example, in Chapter 14 he discusses the words “slow to anger,” and while alerting the reader to the pitfalls of vindictiveness, endorses righteous outrage as: “a healthy response to the pain of others” (221). Though I do not disagree with him, I remain somewhat skeptical of righteous anger. In the Tanakh, descriptions of G-d as “slow to anger” occur simultaneously with words to express gratitude for His compassion (lovingkindness, etc.). Is it possible that G-d’s compassion, as the constant function, is dominant over his sporadic and measured anger? I think that the Tanakh shows us that, when not led by compassion, anger (no matter how righteous) wants for meaning and becomes destructive. I might offer Nietzsche’s (whom Yanklowitz also cites in other chapters) famous quote about “fighting monsters” whenever we give righteous anger so much credit. I can just see Maximilien Robespierre’s transformation from the statesman who advocated for voting rights for Jews and people of color, and opposed capital punishment, into a “monster” who lost his head to the Terror his outrage created. Leading with compassion allows us to empathize with enemies and oppressors as well as those who suffer at their hands, which is an incentive to stay within ethical boundaries even when we are in the throes of righteous anger and/or in spite of times of emotional strain of social justice work. Yet, by Chapter 29, when Yanklowitz explores the “luster” that G-d brings to the eyes of both oppressors and the oppressed, it was clear that I had not wandered very far, and we could still see each other across my tangential space.
That said, there were a few points at which I agreed with his arguments, though I might have chosen different verbiage and/or citations to communicate them. I also noted that the second half of the book seemed rushed, though I am not sure if it’s because Yanklowitz wanted to avoid repetitive themes at the end. Though he writes in the introduction that readers might choose a non-linear approach to the book, the shorter commentaries at the end may or may not exactly work as well as for readers who took the linear approach, as I did. Mainly, the critiques I would offer fall within the range of normal variations of opinion, personal preferences, etc.
Still, the book’s greatest asset was Yanklowitz’ postmodernist interaction with the text. His skepticism of objectivity, reason, absolute traditions and rules, unquestioning compliance with the directives of sages, and accepted metanarratives encourages readers to embrace fluidity of meaning in deciphering religious texts (esp. with respect to context), and to trust whatever “inner knowing” lives within us. Truly, a reader might find that Yanklowitz invites them to engage with a form of paradoxical realism particular to the Book of Proverbs. I know that one of the greatest gifts that Judaism has brought to my life is the fact that, rather than leading me away from faith, critical thought leads me to revelation of the Divine; riddling through seemingly contradictory injunctions in Jewish texts, like the Book of Proverbs, reconciles me to the existence of G-d. Reading Yanklowitz’ commentaries guided me back to the practical world from some semi-effable plane where my mind wandered while reading each chapter of the Book of Proverbs. Considering that the purpose of the Book of Proverbs is pragmatic application of ineffable wisdom, I think it is fair to say that Yanklowitz definitely hits his target with this work.
In fact, I sometimes found that Yanklowitz’ commentaries pointed out to me paths that may not have ended in exactly the same conclusions that he found. For example, in Chapter 14 he discusses the words “slow to anger,” and while alerting the reader to the pitfalls of vindictiveness, endorses righteous outrage as: “a healthy response to the pain of others” (221). Though I do not disagree with him, I remain somewhat skeptical of righteous anger. In the Tanakh, descriptions of G-d as “slow to anger” occur simultaneously with words to express gratitude for His compassion (lovingkindness, etc.). Is it possible that G-d’s compassion, as the constant function, is dominant over his sporadic and measured anger? I think that the Tanakh shows us that, when not led by compassion, anger (no matter how righteous) wants for meaning and becomes destructive. I might offer Nietzsche’s (whom Yanklowitz also cites in other chapters) famous quote about “fighting monsters” whenever we give righteous anger so much credit. I can just see Maximilien Robespierre’s transformation from the statesman who advocated for voting rights for Jews and people of color, and opposed capital punishment, into a “monster” who lost his head to the Terror his outrage created. Leading with compassion allows us to empathize with enemies and oppressors as well as those who suffer at their hands, which is an incentive to stay within ethical boundaries even when we are in the throes of righteous anger and/or in spite of times of emotional strain of social justice work. Yet, by Chapter 29, when Yanklowitz explores the “luster” that G-d brings to the eyes of both oppressors and the oppressed, it was clear that I had not wandered very far, and we could still see each other across my tangential space.
That said, there were a few points at which I agreed with his arguments, though I might have chosen different verbiage and/or citations to communicate them. I also noted that the second half of the book seemed rushed, though I am not sure if it’s because Yanklowitz wanted to avoid repetitive themes at the end. Though he writes in the introduction that readers might choose a non-linear approach to the book, the shorter commentaries at the end may or may not exactly work as well as for readers who took the linear approach, as I did. Mainly, the critiques I would offer fall within the range of normal variations of opinion, personal preferences, etc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2024
Welcome to Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz's discussion on social justice in The Book of Proverbs. Many of you will adore this deep reworking of the biblical Book of Proverbs, which combines age-old wisdom with modern ethical, social, and spiritual issues. However, this book addresses a number of complex issues by combining current ideas with insights from the Jewish tradition. Read Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz’s The Book of Proverbs for more information.
I adore reading Rabbi Yanklowitz's writings because of his strong adherence to traditional beliefs. His writings, like this one, consistently serve as a reminder of the wisdom of the old. Old proverbs and lessons exist to help us, and the author demonstrated how they might be applied to address today's issues. Additionally, there is a pleasing blending of modern concepts from poets, activists, and intellectuals with classic Jewish teachings. He also discussed several important topics, such as how we ought to respect others and advocate for universal equality.
There aren’t really characters in this book, like in a story, but Rabbi Yanklowitz, the author, acts like a guide. He helps us understand the wisdom from Proverbs in a new way, showing how it applies to things like fairness, justice, and equality in our world today. Since the book doesn’t have typical characters, what felt real to me were the themes and ideas. The book's emphasis on action is something you might find incredibly appealing. Wisdom is about acting morally rather than merely knowing things. This book inspires you to take action, whether that means speaking up for what's right in your community or basing your own decisions on kindness and fairness.
In addition to being simple to read, Rabbi Yanklowitz's novel is rich in profound ideas. He transforms the knowledge found in Proverbs into a manual for improving the world. His ability to relate abstract concepts like justice and accountability to real-world situations is really commendable. His explanations are easy to follow, even if you are unfamiliar with Jewish ideas. Even though it’s not a story with suspense, the book keeps you hooked by offering new and meaningful ways to apply old teachings to modern-day life. The connections it makes between ancient wisdom and today’s challenges make you want to keep reading.
The book's extensive discussion of social justice, however, may prove challenging for some readers who are used to more conventional interpretations of Proverbs. Yet, I found it motivating when I read it since it makes a connection between spiritual understanding and practical issues. There was nothing in this book that I found disagreeable. The lessons struck a perfect chord with me. There were also no errors in the book, it was exceptionally edited. Thus, I rate The Book of Proverbs 5 out of 5 stars.
I recommend this book to religious readers, students, and young adults who are interested in exploring the connection between ancient wisdom and modern-day issues.
I adore reading Rabbi Yanklowitz's writings because of his strong adherence to traditional beliefs. His writings, like this one, consistently serve as a reminder of the wisdom of the old. Old proverbs and lessons exist to help us, and the author demonstrated how they might be applied to address today's issues. Additionally, there is a pleasing blending of modern concepts from poets, activists, and intellectuals with classic Jewish teachings. He also discussed several important topics, such as how we ought to respect others and advocate for universal equality.
There aren’t really characters in this book, like in a story, but Rabbi Yanklowitz, the author, acts like a guide. He helps us understand the wisdom from Proverbs in a new way, showing how it applies to things like fairness, justice, and equality in our world today. Since the book doesn’t have typical characters, what felt real to me were the themes and ideas. The book's emphasis on action is something you might find incredibly appealing. Wisdom is about acting morally rather than merely knowing things. This book inspires you to take action, whether that means speaking up for what's right in your community or basing your own decisions on kindness and fairness.
In addition to being simple to read, Rabbi Yanklowitz's novel is rich in profound ideas. He transforms the knowledge found in Proverbs into a manual for improving the world. His ability to relate abstract concepts like justice and accountability to real-world situations is really commendable. His explanations are easy to follow, even if you are unfamiliar with Jewish ideas. Even though it’s not a story with suspense, the book keeps you hooked by offering new and meaningful ways to apply old teachings to modern-day life. The connections it makes between ancient wisdom and today’s challenges make you want to keep reading.
The book's extensive discussion of social justice, however, may prove challenging for some readers who are used to more conventional interpretations of Proverbs. Yet, I found it motivating when I read it since it makes a connection between spiritual understanding and practical issues. There was nothing in this book that I found disagreeable. The lessons struck a perfect chord with me. There were also no errors in the book, it was exceptionally edited. Thus, I rate The Book of Proverbs 5 out of 5 stars.
I recommend this book to religious readers, students, and young adults who are interested in exploring the connection between ancient wisdom and modern-day issues.
August 14, 2022
A new genre of biblical commentary has appeared over the past few years. Rather than doing a line-by-line discussion of the text, these commentators use the text as a starting point to explore contemporary moral and ethical problems. One recent example is “The Book of Proverbs: A Social Justice Commentary” by Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz (Reform Judaism Publishing/CCAR Press). That the press of the Reform Movement has published a social action work written by an Orthodox rabbi shows the exploration of ethical issues knows no Jewish boundaries.
See the rest of my review at https://www.thereportergroup.org/past...
See the rest of my review at https://www.thereportergroup.org/past...
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews