Judaism, Spirituality, and Disability

TitleJudaism, Spirituality, and Disability
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2004
AuthorsJones, M
Journal TitleJournal of Religion, Disability & Health
Volume8
Pages55–88
ISSN1522-8967
Abstract

{SUMMARY} Judaism teaches that the wisdom to resolve current issues can be found in ancient texts. While there are many references in the written and oral law pertaining to disability, these are not well known and, being taken out of context, are at risk of misinterpretation. This article draws on Halacha, the ancient Jewish law which literally means “the way on which one goes,” to demonstrate that the principles of Judaism and rules for daily living have the potential to empower people with disabilities. It argues that Jewish spirituality involves the recognition of the role of Hashem in the way we live our lives and involves adherence to ethical standards, the most important of which is “choose life.” Because all lives are of infinite value, all must be treated with dignity and respect. Yet Judaism as practiced in Australia and elsewhere has often excluded people with disabilities or simply ignored our need for inclusion.

URLhttp://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1300/J095v08n01_06
DOI10.1300/J095v08n01_06

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