Obama’s New COS Lew and “the Power of Shabbat”

David Streeter — January 19, 2012 – 1:19 pm | Democrats Comments (0) Add a comment

Rabbi Ethan Tucker wrote a thoughtful op-ed for The Forward on President Barack Obama’s new Sabbath-observant Chief of Staff Jack Lew and the dilemma he faces regarding Shabbat. Tucker analyzed what the Talmud says about the situation—in which is a Sabbath-observant Jew plays a key role in governmental administration—and concluded:

We live in a thrilling moment for Shabbat observance. It is a moment in which the general culture is truly ready to hear much of its message. And it is also a moment in which being observant is not a barrier to serving one’s country and society at the highest echelons of power. I am sure Jack Lew will find ways to avoid all unnecessary meetings on Shabbat and will be in a position to avoid certain concrete physical tasks like writing that have been core elements of Shabbat observance for millennia. But when he does find himself in the office on a Saturday - beckoned by the president to deal with issues of national concern - I hope he and we will remember Rav Sheshet’s insight: The Jew’s commitment to infusing our world with Jewish values and leadership is ultimately a 24/7 endeavor.

Click here to read Tucker’s full piece.

Also, click here to read what Jewish community leaders from across the community had to say about Lew. 

 

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