Rabbi David Bashevkin
What is the Purpose of Judaism?
What does it mean to reclaim Judaism not in the synagogue — but at the family table? That’s the vision of Rabbi David Bashevkin, author, podcaster, educator and one of today’s most engaging Modern Orthodox voices. In this episode of Being Jewish with Jonah Platt: 30 Minute Mensches, Jonah sits down with Rabbi Bashevkin to explore how Judaism can speak authentically to modern life and why Jewish identity is ultimately about integrating our “unchosen” identities with the “chosen” ones.
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Why Jewish life must begin in the home, not in synagogues or textbooks
How Judaism helps us integrate our unchosen identity (family, history, peoplehood) with our chosen paths in life
The importance of 1840 — a mystical year that reshaped Jewish thought, technology, and modern identity
Why Jewish education must instill a love of lifelong learning– not just through graduation
The urgent need for bridge-building within the Jewish community — and how to turn religious difference into dialogue
Why teens crave authenticity, and how NCSY empowers them through peer-to-peer mentorship
The challenge of negative Orthodox representation in the media — and why Judaism is meant for the imperfect among us
Rabbi Bashevkin’s work through his platform 18Forty (essays, podcasts, and conversations at 1840.org) opens the door for “post-institutional Jews” and anyone searching for meaning beyond the classroom. Listen to this episode to find out why Judaism isn’t just about survival or fighting antisemitism — it’s about rediscovering purpose, family, and the sanctity of everyday existence.
Host & Production Team - Host: Jonah Platt; Produced by Rainbow Creative (Executive Producer: Matthew Jones; Story Producer: Sasha Nelson; Content Director: Alexandra Fugère; Associate Producer: Emma Webb, Nathan Wheatley, Valerie Patterson); Consulting Producer: Bethany Mandel; Executive Assistant: Josie Rothschild; Graphic Designer: Noah Bell
