WATCH: Nolan Lebovitz talks about "The Case for Dual Loyalty"

David Hazony hosts the author in latest event in Z3 Project's Jerusalem Series at the Begin Center

David H.—Last Wednesday in Jerusalem, I spoke with Nolan Lebovitz, Z3 Institute adjunct fellow, senior rabbi at Valley Beth Shalom in Los Angeles, and author of The Case for Dual Loyalty: Healing the Divided Soul of American Jews. This was a great conversation—I hope you’ll agree.

For generations, American Jews have been afraid of the accusation of “dual loyalty.” But when they walk into a synagogue, they often see two national flags, of the U.S. and Israel. This, Lebovitz contends, creates a conflicting message that undermines one of the most important pillars of Jewish identity: Loyalty to Jews around the world. In our own time, Jewish loyalty, or “peoplehood,” is expressed powerfully through our connection to Israel. Instead of rejecting the possibility of multiple loyalties, Jews should embrace what he calls the “Jewish double-helix,” in which loyalty to country and loyalty to the Jewish people intertwine and build each other.

The lesson is powerful and simple: Jews must embrace Jewish loyalty as a non-negotiable, essential part of a strong and proud Jewish identity. Watch it here:

I’m proud to be able to host Z3 Project’s ongoing Jerusalem Series at the Begin Center. Many thanks to all involved!