Endless Hatred: Rabbi Wein's book launch

Rabbi Berel Wein once again packed the shul last night when an excited and expectant audience flooded in to hear him speak on his latest book, Endless Hatred: Antisemitism from the Biblical Era to Modern Times, published this month by the Destiny Foundation.

In the course of his half-hour presentation Rabbi Wein surveyed the development and practice of antisemitism in many different guises, taking in the position of Jews in Roman times, in Spain and under Stalin in Russia -- to mention just a few examples. Nor did he hide from discussion of the conflict between Judaism and the two major faiths that were its monotheistic offshoots, Christianity and Islam. 

Rabbi Wein's talk concluded by urging those present to make sure that the tale he tells in this new title is transmitted to their children and their children's children. This appeal had an immediate and dramatic effect: many people who bought a copy of the book on the way in to the lecture purchased a further one or two copies when they left.

Photo: Rabbi Wein, pictured here with some of his previous publications.

While the subject of antisemitism cannot fail to cast the shadow of sorrow and sadness over any Jew who reads it, Rabbi Wein never loses his optimism and his faith that, with the protection of a merciful and almighty God, our ultimate destiny -- living as Jews in the land that He has given us -- is assured. 

 

If you have yet to see the book, you may be wondering what it's like. The first thing you will notice about it is its accessibility. It is not a threateningly academic tome that bristles with footnotes and obscure references. Far from it. The print is large, clear and makes for a comfortable reading experience. There are also many illustrations. 

On a personal note, Rabbi Wein's list of acknowledgements includes an honourable mention of Faigie Gilbert a.h. of the Destiny Foundation. Before her early passing she was also a great help to Beit Knesset Hanassi. We miss her too.

Rabbi Wein's talk last night has been recorded by Torah Anytime. You can access it by clicking here.