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Biblical books are filled with reassurances from God and the prophets that a hopeful future lies ahead. Later Jewish texts offer guidance on how to turn despair into hope, analyze the relationship between hope, trust, and fear, and provide language for expressing hope through prayer.
Notable Sources
All Sources
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Strength and Courage in Faith
TANAKH
In times of uncertainty and challenge, looking to God for strength and courage can be a profound source of hope and resilience. The book of Psalms, a biblical anthology of 150 poems, includes expressions of trust in God, encouraging readers to find strength and courage through faith.
Lifelong Benefits of Torah Study
TALMUD
Torah study can offer lifelong benefits and hope in old age, unlike other professions that provide only temporary rewards. Rabbi Nehorai, in the Babylonian Talmud in tractate Kiddushin, highlights the enduring value of prioritizing Torah study over other trades.
The Valley of Dry Bones
TANAKH
The despair and loss of hope experienced by the House of Israel is symbolized by the imagery of dried-up bones. The prophet Ezekiel, speaking from Babylonian exile, presents a vision of a valley filled with dry bones to symbolize the hopelessness of the Israelites.
Abraham's Enduring Vitality
MIDRASH
Abraham's life demonstrates how one can continue to grow and thrive through the performance of good deeds, even in old age. Bereshit Rabbah, an ancient midrash on the book of Genesis, uses biblical verses to portray Abraham as a model of enduring vitality and spiritual growth.
Renewal Through Trust
TANAKH
Trusting in God can renew one's strength and endurance, much like eagles growing new feathers. The prophet Isaiah uses the metaphor of eagles to illustrate how those who trust in God will find their strength renewed.
A Prayer For Hope and Divine Favor
LITURGY
The Amidah prayer on Yom Kippur -- the solemn Day of Atonement -- includes a list of requests, including one for hope for those who seek God. This prayer reflects broader themes of repentance, hope, and messianic aspirations.
Visionary Leadership
JEWISH THOUGHT
Visionary leadership has the power to transform the future of the Jewish people. Rabbi Dr. Eliezer Berkovits, a prominent 20th-century scholar and Jewish philosopher, reflects on the impact of Theodor Herzl’s Zionist vision in fostering hope and progress.
Hope Through Anticipating the Messiah
TALMUD
In times of increasing trouble, people have found hope in waiting for the coming of the Messiah. Rabbi Yochanan's teachings in the Babylonian Talmud highlight signs of the Messiah's coming, supported by verses from II Samuel and Isaiah.
The Dynamics of Hope
KABBALAH
Hope is a dynamic and personal force that propels our thoughts, actions, and words towards future aspirations. Abraham Abulafia, a 13th-century Jewish mystic, delves into the transformative role of hope and desire in spiritual development.
Hope For Sinners
MUSAR
Even when it seems impossible to return to righteousness, Jewish texts describe divine assistance as always available. The 15th-century ethical work Orchot Tzadikim emphasizes the boundless opportunities for hope and the access to divine help for those who seek it.
The Exodus Story As a Language of Hope
COMMENTARY
Contemporary scholar Rabbi Dr. Joshua Kulp describes the Exodus from Egypt as a reference point for hope in many different struggles for freedom and justice.
Hope in the Rebbe
CHASIDUT
Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira’s Mevo HaShearim describes an example of a despairing person seeking out a rebbe to restore their hope. The text offers both theoretical insights and practical instructions for those on a spiritual journey within the Chasidic tradition.
Spreading Inner Light
COMMENTARY
The lighting of Chanukkah candles symbolizes the hope for removing barriers and spreading inner light outward. Contemporary scholar Rabbanit Dr. Michal Tikochinsky explores the deeper meaning of Chanukkah candles, linking them to the concept of "the candle of God is the soul of man."
The Relationship Between Hope and Fear
SECOND TEMPLE
Philo of Alexandria, a Hellenistic Jewish philosopher, explores the relationship between hope and fear, portraying hope as holy and praiseworthy while depicting despondency and fear as unholy and blameworthy. His writings merge Jewish theology with Greek philosophy to provide a unique perspective on Jewish thought during the Second Temple period.
A Journey Motivated By Hope
CHASIDUT
Rebbe Nachman of Breslov's journey to the land of Israel exemplifies his unwavering commitment to a spiritual goal. Shivchei HaRan, a collection of stories and teachings about Rebbe Nachman, highlights his relentless determination despite numerous obstacles.
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