Why I Am a Jew: Inspired by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks
At the beginning of the school year, I ask my students in my Jewish Studies class to consider how they view Jewish identity. This exercise is inspired by the words of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks z”l. As I reflect upon how challenging it is in the current climate to stand up and proclaim our love for and commitment to Judaism, I thought it only fitting that I share my own views on being a Jew.
Rabbi Jonathan Sacks’ profound words in “Why I Am a Jew” resonate deeply with me. His eloquent exploration of Jewish identity goes beyond culture, beyond history, beyond even religion—it speaks to the essence of who we are and why we continue to be. As I reflect on my own journey, I recognize the parallels between his experiences and my own yet realize the personal reasons that have shaped my identity as a Jew.
To me, being a Jew is an ongoing dialogue with the past, present, and future. It is not only a badge of identity but also a commitment to a narrative that stretches back millennia and stretches forward into eternity. I am a Jew because I am part of a story larger than myself, a story that began with a covenant between God and a people, a story that still unfolds with each generation.
Judaism, for me, is not just a religion or set of beliefs; it is a way of life that demands engagement, reflection, and action. Rabbi Sacks emphasized that Jews were never content to simply inherit their traditions. We question, challenge, and wrestle with the teachings of the Torah and our sages. I embrace this tradition of inquiry and thought. The Torah is my guide, but not in a passive way. It demands that I think deeply about its messages and apply them to the challenges of modern life.
I am a Jew because of the ethical responsibility that comes with it. Judaism teaches that we are each tasked with tikkun olam—the repair of the world. In every role I play, whether in my community, my family, or my classroom, I carry the weight of that responsibility. Our ancient texts, rituals, and prayers are not just about spiritual connection; they are about cultivating a sensitivity to the needs of others. This ethical core drives my decisions, actions, and the way I engage with the world.
Rabbi Sacks wrote that to be a Jew is to live a life filled with hope, to believe in a future that is better than the present. Judaism is about faith in humanity’s capacity to change and improve. When I think of this hope, I am reminded that Jewish history is filled with suffering and persecution, yet we continue to thrive and contribute to the world. That resilience, that ability to look forward with optimism despite the darkness of the past, is something I hold dear. It is why I teach, why I lead, and why I am committed to the next generation.
Being a Jew also means being part of a global family. Our community stretches across continents, yet no matter where I find myself, there is always a sense of connection. The prayers I recite, the holidays I celebrate, and the shared values I hold unite me with Jews everywhere. I am a Jew because I belong to this people—a people that, despite differences in background, practice, or politics, shares an unbreakable bond.
Ultimately, I am a Jew because I find meaning in a tradition that transcends time. It connects me to my ancestors, to the Jewish people today, and to future generations. It gives me a sense of purpose and direction in a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain.
Rabbi Sacks taught us that to be a Jew is to live a life of faith, responsibility, and hope. These are not just abstract ideas but living principles that guide my daily actions and choices. As I continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, my Jewish identity remains at the core of who I am. I am Rabbi Corey Margolese, and I am a Jew—because to be a Jew is to live a life of meaning, purpose, and connection.