Torah for Non-Jews. A Convo with Rabbi Pinchas Taylor
Our guest, Orthodox Rabbi, Pinchas Taylor covers a wide range of topics in his projects. Over the last few years, Rabbi Taylor has become a voice I appreciate, particularly as he has boldly waded into the murky space of revealing Torah to the nations.
As many Bible readers are becoming aware of the importance of understanding the texts from within the Jewish tradition, the question becomes, "What's next?"
Embarking on a journey into the vast ocean of Rabbinic literature, though admirable, can lead to discordance between preconceived notions and newfound revelations. It is common for many to get twisted up between the simple meaning of the text and the hidden dimensions.
It's a foreign landscape where differing opinions abound and certainty gives way to ambiguity. Instead of enlightenment, some find themselves stuck, unsure how to proceed.
Many, who are not Jewish, will often ask; "Do I need to keep Kosher and Shabbat now?" or, "Should I convert?"
The truth is, the answers may differ for everyone - and the Western mind does not love this notion.
Yet, within the dissonance, I find the depth and richness of the Rabbinic tradition is revealed. We'll find that everyone is invited to receive these ideas with patience, humility, and an openness to the wisdom of the Sages.
To help provide some insight here, I have reached out to an Orthodox Rabbi, Pinchas Taylor. Covering a wide range of topics, Rabbi Taylor has become a voice I have appreciated in the last few years, particularly as he has boldly waded into the murky space of revealing Torah to the nations.
You may have seen him on mainstream channels like Fox News, ABC, The Wallstreet Journal, and more. Or, you may have read one of his books.
Most importantly, he seeks to provide education and guidance for all people to attain spiritual elevation and a sense of purpose in their life. Rabbi Taylor says:
This isn't about religion, it's about connection, heightened awareness, and living with
a higher purpose.
Below, Rabbi Taylor has provided some solid advice to consider if the aforementioned resonates with you. Enjoy!
Q:
One of the most common questions I get comes from people who are not Jewish - but want to honor the Torah and the mitzvot. What advice do you have for them to get started?
Rabbi Taylor:
So the first thing I would suggest is to know that G-d loves you, and that you have a purpose in this world. That's a starting point. G-d is not out to get us, and it is not a particularly Jewish perspective to believe that G-d is simply waiting for our unwitting errors in order to send a lightning bolt in our direction.
A good starting point is getting solid foundations. This would ideally be done with studying with a rabbi who is open to teaching non-Jews their Torah-true path. I would be very cautious about integrating anything from Jewish law or tradition into one's life, if not Jewish, without specific rabbi guidance. Much of what is allowed, appropriate, and overall good perspective is something that comes from being very familiar with the oral tradition and legal codes, and not something that one should just read and make their own judgments on.
Q:
It seems much of the Noahide laws are concerned with prohibitions rather than positive commands. More than keeping the positive commandments, do you feel there should be more attention to the prohibitions?
Rabbi Taylor:
The Noahide Laws are a starting point for building a moral society. I would encourage non-Jews in integrating positive routine practices into their lives that support the 7 prohibitions, such as daily prayer, study, charity, acts of kindness.
Q:
Does it seem to you that there is a massive influx of Gentiles seeking to learn Torah today? In your opinion, why is this?
Rabbi Taylor:
The world corresponds with the 6 days of creation. The world was created in 6 days, and G-d "rested" on the 7th, so too the world would exist in this pattern of existing for 6000 years and the 7th millennium will be one of "rest" and spirituality, i.e. Moshiach. As we move into "Friday afternoon" on the cosmic clock, nearing the onset of the cosmic Sabbath of Moshiach, truth becomes much more available and accessible.
I believe this thirst and phenomenon of many non-Jews pursuing the route of Zechariah 8:23 is a clear fulfillment of prophecy, which I believe Jewish leaders should embrace in an appropriate fashion.
Q:
Can you tell us about your program and what various topics people can access through your program?
Rabbi Taylor:
I have been a rabbi-coach for Jews and non-Jews on their spiritual path for over 15 years. My program is 6 years old, and has at this point without exaggeration helped over 2500 people on their spiritual journey begin or enhance their relationship with G-d.
We go through constructing a healthy understanding of Judaism, and living a life according to the Torah at whatever stage of life and spirituality a person finds themselves. We go topic by topic to explore whatever the subject matter is, in a very thorough and clear way. Every Monday-Thursday new content is added that is approximately 15-20 min, and people can watch any time at their own convenience, ask questions, etc.
No need to watch live. We have an ever-growing and active community. The subject matter is everything from Torah portions, to law, to philosophy and mysticism. All of the perspectives are shaped through Jewish mystical and chassidic teachings.
For more from Rabbi Taylor...
Visit the following sites: Website | Facebook | Youtube
For more on the program, visit: arkprogram.org
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