Rabbi Levi Welton on Exodus 5:22 – “Biblical Humility: Sublimating Ourselves to Our Principles” - S1E68

Rabbi Levi Welton is Mark’s very special guest on the podcast today. As a modern exemplar of the ancient Rabbis who held occupations, Levi not only works as the spiritual leader of Lincoln Park Jewish Center, but also as a healer for low-income patients in NYC, and as a chaplain in the United States Air Force. The passage he has chosen to discuss is Exodus 5:22. Levi begins the discussion with his summary of the passage, why it is his favorite, and the lesson that God wants us to take away from it. He and Mark then explore many of the concepts which flow out of this rich passage such as biblical humility, challenging God, the nature of truth, and God as King rather than Judge. They also examine the relevance of this passage today, the biblical stories of Jonah, the Flood, and the Tower of Babel, as well as the passage’s perspective on social activism and an approachable God. At the conclusion, Levi shares the lessons about mankind which he has learned which, in turn, lead to a fascinating discussion about pastoring to non-Jews in his role as Air Force chaplain. This conversation, which quickly expands to touch on so many aspects of both the Torah and of society today, demonstrates yet again how ‘one biblical passage can yield so much wisdom’, providing invaluable lessons and guidance for all. Episode Highlights: Levi’s summary of the passage and why it is his favorite verse The lesson that God wants us to take away from this verse Biblical humility Challenging God The nature of truth The relevance of this passage today Levi’s struggle with his faith God as King The story of Jonah Contrasting the story of the Flood and the Tower of Babel This passage’s perspective on social activism An approachable God The lessons Levi has learned about mankind Pastoring to non-Jews Quotes: “This is a mortal human arrogantly accusing God of evil.” “Moses is talking about evil done to ‘the other’.” “Stop thinking about what you need, and think what you’re needed for.” “He’s very confident, he’s very aware of his grea