Purpose & Values

What does Living Torah mean to us?

We believe Living Torah holds two meanings that are inextricably intertwined and mutually reinforcing. We believe in Torah that is alive, dynamic, evolving and in conversation with the contemporary world. And we believe in steeping our lives in this Torah, living it in its broadest sense, continually learning Jewish wisdom and applying the most relevant and inspiring practices and ideas to help us thrive and shape a better world. We further believe that all who choose to partake are invited and welcome to participate in Torah’s ongoing collaborative creation. Understood this way, we believe Living Torah is one of the great continuous catalysts of social and spiritual innovation in human history, inspiring progress for thousands of years toward a more liberated, just, and peaceful world. 

The Foundation’s founding members chose the name Living Torah because they so passionately believe that applying Jewish wisdom with a Living Torah mindset can help people improve their lives in ways small and large. They believe supporting Torah’s renewal and helping all Jews and fellow travelers gain access to Jewish wisdom contributes to changing the world for the better.

We believe in Torah that is alive, dynamic, evolving and in conversation with the contemporary world.

בצלם אלהים B’TSELEM ELOHIM:
Each Person is Made in the Divine Image

We honor the essential dignity, individuality, and potential of every person. We appreciate diversity in backgrounds, experiences, beliefs, and approaches.

חברותא CHAVRUTA:
Dialogue and Partnership

We create meaning together, challenging thinking and building on one another’s ideas. We approach our engagements as partnerships and seek the inclusion of many voices.

קשר KESHER:
Connectedness

We believe in the power of togetherness – family, community, כלל ישראל (Klal Yisrael – the unity of the Jewish people). We place ourselves in the context of a larger whole and take responsibility for the impact our actions and inactions have on others.

“משיח” “MASHIACH”
(Era of a perfect world):
Sense of Possibility

We believe in the perfectibility of the world. We continually reach toward vision, asking “How might we?” We think boldly, address challenges head on, and approach our work with courage and creativity.

“נחשון” “NACHSHON”
(First into the water):
Drive Forward

We embrace new insights, big ideas, and fresh initiatives with an action orientation, learning as we go. We are willing to rise to the occasion when others cannot, do not, or will not.

בשם שמים B’SHEM SHAMAYIM (In the name of the heavens): Strength with Humility

We are aware of our responsibility and strive to use it worthily. We constantly remind ourselves that everything we do is for the betterment of the world.