In the Book of Leviticus, the Torah articulates a bold vision for building a just society, featuring the sabbatical and Jubilee years. These radical innovations are in the service of ensuring that “there will be no needy among you.” What do these passages have to teach us today, in this time of inequity and a plague that disproportionately impacts the poor and people of color? In this episode (recorded at Temple Beth-El’s virtual Shabbat morning gathering on May 16, 2020), Rabbi Knopf and special guest Pastor Ralph Steven Hodge (Senior Pastor of Second Baptist Church of South Richmond) discuss Leviticus’ vision for a just society and their work together advancing justice in the Richmond region.

“Socially Distant, Spiritually Close” is hosted and recorded by Rabbi Michael Knopf and produced by Dr. Gillian Frank. Theme music is composed and produced by Stephen Frost. Cover art was designed by Judith Rushin, using a photograph by Miriam Aniel. These teachings, presentations, and conversations reflect the dynamism, warmth, passion, and kindness of Temple Beth-El in Richmond, VA.