Hertzberg ‘was a teacher first’

I was very happy to see the April 8 article in memory of Rabbi Arthur Hertzberg by Joanne Palmer.

While he was formidable, challenging, and at times a caustic character to encounter in person, I first got to know him through his writing. As a Jewish educator, I was struck by the teaching voice that permeated his writing style. One was never lost in obtuse language and thinking but, on the contrary, guided through complex ideas, topics, and issues with clarity and concern for the reader. He was a teacher first and wanted the reader to get it and deepen one’s understanding of the tragedies and triumphs of Jewish history. Reading his books was energizing and gave me the gifts of insight and self-confidence as a Jew. Pesach is a perfect time to pick up a Hertzberg book.

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