The Persistence of Faith

by Jonathan Sacks

"These essays, broadcast by the BBC as the 1990 Reith Lectures, appear prophetic now. Since that time, the resurgence of religion has caught us by surprise. The influence of the moral majority in the USA, the Islamic Revolution in Iran, the prevalence of religious parties in Israel, the renewed vigour of Catholicism in Europe and Africa, all run contrary to the notion that modernity and secularisation inevitably go hand in hand. Instead, religion has resurfaced and often appears to be not only powerful but menacing and threatening." Sacks' solution is not to drive religion further into retreat. He argues that each faith must remain open to criticism, yet keep alive its separate community and contribute far more rather than less to the national debate about moral issues. We still live under the Biblical canopy which provides a cohesive morality that can unite the diverse bonds of faith.

Genres: Jewish, Theology, Judaism

128 pages, Paperback

First published January 31, 1991

About the author

Rabbi Lord Jonathan Henry Sacks was the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth. His Hebrew name was Yaakov Zvi.

Serving as the chief rabbi in the United Kingdom from 1991 to 2013, Sacks gained fame both in the secular world and in Jewish circles. He was a sought-after voice on issues of war and peace, religious fundamentalism, ethics, and the relationship between science and religion, among other topics. Sacks wrote more than 20 books.

Rabbi Sacks died November 2020 after a short bout with cancer. He was 72.

Reviews

[Sam Mart]

Would give it 6/5 if I could

[Jayde Schwerin]

Brilliant as always... his writings are wisdom personified.

[Rupert Wolfe-Murray]

he makes a good case for religion

[Andrew]

Very clear exposition on important issues for NOW 2026