Rabbi Sharon Brous: Building Bridges in a Divided World
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Rabbi Sharon Brous, a prominent figure in the Jewish community and senior rabbi of ICAR in Los Angeles, is featured in Guy Kawasaki's 'Remarkable People' podcast. Rabbi Brous, recognized for her influential role and contributions to presidential inaugural services, discusses her book 'The Amen Effect,' which explores the power of community in healing and societal reconstruction. She emphasizes the multifaceted role of a rabbi and the significance of 'amen' as an act of spiritual solidarity. Rabbi Brous shares her experiences and insights on the Jewish mourner's prayer, the universal desire to rectify societal wrongs, and the importance of interfaith harmony. She draws parallels between Judaism and Islam, particularly the shared belief in the sanctity of life, and advocates for interpretations of sacred texts that promote peace. Rabbi Brous criticizes the actions of some religious leaders that contradict the teachings of equality and calls for inclusive communities that counteract extremism. She expresses concern over the diminishing presence of a courageous religious voice in public space and the need for a revitalized religious practice. Rabbi Brous also addresses political issues, including her stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the potential consequences of the 2020 U.S. presidential election. She articulates a vision for a peaceful future in the Middle East and the importance of community engagement to prevent the rise of totalitarianism. Rabbi Brous suggests practical spiritual practices, such as engaging with others' pain and brokenness, and daily acts of service to find one's purpose. She introduces the concept of 'grieve and live,' emphasizing the need for joy amidst sorrow and the power of presence. In her final chapter, she discusses the theme of 'wonder' and the practice of staying engaged in difficult conversations. Guy Kawasaki praises Rabbi Brous's book and shares his personal connection to the Jewish community, including the significance of the number 18. The conversation concludes with expressions of mutual respect and aspirations for a better world, with Kawasaki extending gratitude to his podcast team.
Rabbi Sharon Brous, a prominent figure in the Jewish community and senior rabbi of ICAR in Los Angel