Hebrew scholar and Jewish academic Irene Lancaster reflects on Purim and Jewish-Christian dialogue.
As Purim begins tonight, lasting until Monday in Israel, the Jewish community reflects on the themes from the Book of Esther, where God’s presence is felt through human actions despite His name not being mentioned. The festivities include shaking greggers at the mention of Haman, dressing in costumes, enjoying music and food, and participating in street carnivals, amidst unpredictable weather.
This year, Purim coincides with multiple commemorations, including the end of World War Two and International Women’s Day. Among these, the Rabbi Jonathan Sacks Memorial Lecture was held in London, featuring former Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Rowan Williams, who co-chairs the Anglican Jewish Conversation Group.
March 1 marked a rare convergence of Shabbat, Rosh Hodesh Adar, and Parshat Shekalim, while March 8 saw the reading of Parshat Amalek, emphasizing the personal impact of historical events on the Jewish people. This date also coincided with Jonathan Sacks’ birthday, adding significance to the lecture by Rowan Williams.
Reflecting on past dialogues, Lancaster recounts her initial skepticism regarding Jewish-Christian discussions, as suggested by Rabbi Shear Yashuv Cohen and then Archbishop Rowan Williams. Despite challenges, dialogue persisted, emphasizing the value of mutual learning and cooperation, as demonstrated by influential figures like Pope John XXIII and Pope John Paul.
In 2008, Rabbi Sacks addressed the Lambeth Conference, highlighting the distinction between ‘covenant’ and ‘contract.’ While contracts are temporary, covenants embody an eternal promise, reflecting the Jewish commitment to Torah and Land. This enduring covenant underpins Jewish resilience and identity.
During a family sabbatical in Jerusalem, Lancaster attended a theological seminary where she met Rabbi Dr. Nathan Lopez Cardozo, who introduced her to Jewish thought. Years later, Rowan Williams hosted the launch of Lancaster’s translated biography of Rabbi Shear Yashuv Cohen, furthering interfaith understanding.
Rabbi Cardozo’s interpretations, contrasting Noah’s compliance with Abraham’s boldness, resonate with Jewish teachings. Lancaster explores these themes in her review of Rabbi Cardozo’s book, ‘Jewish Law as Rebellion’ (link).
Williams, in his lecture, discussed the interconnectedness of Judaism and Christianity, suggesting they offer complementary perspectives. He referenced a letter from John Sentamu, former Archbishop of York, highlighting the necessity of Jewish-Christian collaboration to combat antisemitism and fulfill divine purposes.
Reflecting on a 2008 trip to Auschwitz with faith leaders and students, Lancaster noted the failure to grasp the Holocaust’s lessons, highlighting the need for greater awareness and action against antisemitism. Williams emphasized the distinctiveness of Jewish identity, urging a focus on living Jews and their contributions rather than solely on historical victimhood.
In light of the ongoing debate about a Holocaust memorial in Victoria Tower Gardens, Williams voiced concerns over its potential misinterpretation. While some view it as a monument to general genocide, its purpose should be to honor Jewish history and identity specifically, as argued by Rabbi Cardozo and Williams.
As Lancaster prepared for Purim, she attended a meeting on trauma, where parents who lost children to violence shared their stories. Their resilience highlighted the importance of community, creativity, and celebration in overcoming adversity.
Gratitude permeates Lancaster’s reflections, from her family’s survival of the Holocaust to the support of individuals and institutions fostering Jewish-Christian cooperation. She acknowledges the significance of continued dialogue and commitment to shared values, as encapsulated in Rabbi Tarfon’s wisdom from Pirke Avot: “You may not be able to finish the job, but you have to give it a go.”
In retirement, Rowan Williams expressed solidarity with the Jewish community, paraphrasing Holocaust survivor Paul Celan: “Count me in.” This spirit of unity and shared purpose remains crucial in addressing contemporary challenges.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
