Creation, Retaliation, Choseness and Faith: Four Challenges to the Bible

Join us for a compelling four-part series with Rabbi Dr. Rafi Zarum, based on his recent award-winning book, Questioning Belief. In this thought-provoking series, Rabbi Zarum tackles some of the most pressing and challenging questions at the intersection of tradition, ethics, and contemporary thought. Drawing deeply from classical Jewish sources while engaging with modern sensibilities, he offers surprising, provocative, and energizing insights that speak to today’s Jewish experience. Over four sessions, we’ll explore: what the Creation story teaches us if it’s not taken literally; the ethical dilemmas raised by King David’s actions and their relevance to modern warfare and shared responsibility; the complex and often misunderstood notion of the Jewish people as "chosen"; and what belief means in a Jewish context—even for those who question or reject the idea of God. Whether you're a seeker, a skeptic, or a committed believer, this series will invite you into a rich and honest conversation about faith, identity, and meaning in the modern world.

Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum is Dean of the London School of Jewish Studies (LSJS) where he holds the Rabbi Sacks Chair of Modern Jewish Thought, established by the Zandan family. He lectures in Jewish philosophy and education, and trains teachers and rabbis. Rabbi Zarum has a PhD in Theoretical Physics from King’s College London and an MA in Adult Education from University College London. His rabbinic ordination was awarded by the Montefiore Kollel and Rabbi Sacks, and he is also a graduate of the Mandel Leadership School in Jerusalem. Rabbi Zarum regularly writes articles for the Jewish press and essays for journals. His recent book, "Questioning Belief: Torah and Tradition in an Age of Doubt", published by Koren, was the finalist in the Rabbi Sacks Book Prize, awarded by Yeshiva University. Rabbi Zarum appears on many podcasts and recently launched his own: "Big Questions of Jewish Belief".  He is an acclaimed educator who travels the globe lecturing in many Jewish communities and diverse institutions.