May 8, 2022 – The foundational literature of many societies contains reflections on the nature of love. These sources come in the form of stories, aphorisms, and even theoretical discussions. Ancient Greek literature has a variety of philosophical reflections on the nature of love and narcissism. Classical Hebraic literature, biblical and rabbinic, evidences a lack of theoretical discussions in favor of more concrete expressions. This literature contains moral rules and regulations, wisdom teachings, and a great variety of stories. Rabbi Rose’s presentation centers primarily on the narratives of love in both biblical and rabbinic sources. The many dimensions of love and narcissism are enacted by an array of characters such as Moses, Sarah, Queen Jezebel, the Messiah, and above all God. The theoretical aspects of the presentation are informed by the work of Martin Buber, Franz Rosenzweig, and Erich Fromm.

Rabbi Neal Rose taught at the University of Manitoba from 1967 to 2000. He was a member of the Departments of Judaic Studies and Religion. He also was an instructor in family therapy at the University of Winnipeg’s Department of Spiritual Care. He and his wife currently live in St. Louis, MO where he serves as rabbinic scholar in residence at Congregation Bnai Amoona and community Chaplain.

Length: 2 hours