Remembering Arthur Waskow z”l

Photo credit: Jane D./Wikimedia Commons

Rabbi Arthur Waskow, who died last week at the age of 92, was a prophetic voice and a visionary leader, a giant in our field. Along with great souls like Leibel Fein z’’l and Rabbi Rachel Cowan z’’l, he helped create the foundation for the modern Jewish social justice movement that thrives today. Those of us who endeavor to carry on that work and vision stand, always, on their shoulders. 

For me, as for so many others who came up in the Jewish social justice ecosystem he helped create, Arthur was a larger-than-life figure. On a personal level, Arthur had a profound impact on my Jewish identity long before I got involved in this work. His book, Seasons of Our Joy, was instrumental in helping me, as a young person, create my own Jewish practice and community. Just a few years ago I had to buy a new copy; the original had fallen apart after so many decades of use. I remember the first time I met him; it felt like meeting a rabbinic rock star. But of course, that’s not how Arthur acted; he was gentle, kind, and curious—profoundly generous of spirit.

Arthur was also, unsurprisingly, a loyal NIF supporter who shared our vision for a better future for Israelis and Palestinians. He made his first donation to NIF in 1982 when the organization was just three years old, and his last just a few months ago. His voice and vision will remain an inspiration for all of us at NIF and in the broader Jewish social justice movement, his memory and example a shining light in these dark times. May his memory be for a blessing.