Parashah and Politics·Episode 13·Mar 10, 2024

Parashat Shemot: Moses, Freud, and Herzl in Vienna

In the heart of Vienna, two iconic figures, Sigmund Freud and Theodor Herzl, lived as neighbors, yet their paths never crossed. This proximity highlights the profound similarities and differences in their lives, particularly their responses to Jewish identity. Both men, initially distanced from Jewish traditions, eventually confronted their heritage in contrasting ways. Herzl dedicated his later years to the Zionist cause, while Freud, in exile, controversially challenged Jewish narratives in "Moses and Monotheism." This juxtaposition is particularly poignant as we delve into Parashat Shemot, where Moses' story begins. The narrative of Moses, raised as an Egyptian yet drawn to his Hebrew roots, mirrors the struggles of Jewish identity and assimilation faced by Herzl and Freud. Moses' journey from Egyptian royalty to embracing his Hebrew identity underscores the enduring theme of Jewish resilience and identity. This tale, much like Herzl's transformation, defies expectations, illustrating the miraculous and often inexplicable nature of Jewish history.