Practicing Judaism was the last thing Miriam Raquel Feldman ever wanted. In fact, it was something she denied, preferring instead to be a free spirit, and a citizen of the world. After repeatedly rejecting her Jewish roots, Mriam found herself reluctantly following the love of her life to retrieve him from an “orthodox cult”. But that is not the fate that awaited Miriam.
In Miriam’s memoir, “God, Said What?”, you will follow the story of how a letter from a former boyfriend, who had joined a religious community in Israel, set Miriam on her life’s path. Miriam shares the day-to-day stories and moments during her studies at a women’s yeshiva, as she was slowly captivated and drawn towards the beauty of an orthodox Jewish life.
Miriam also addresses some common misconceptions about the role and treatment of women in orthodox Judaism as was portrayed in several popular Netflix dramas over the last couple of years. We discuss meanings behind some of the Jewish laws and traditions she practices, and the universal message of peace and kindness that transcends religious boundaries. Whether you’re Jewish, Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, or of any other faith, Miriam’s story offers encouragement for anyone seeking a deeper connection to their spiritual path.
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Top quotes from Interview:
“I went to a rabbi and showed him this letter. The rabbi looked at it and said, “Your boyfriend’s in a cult.””
“I had totally rejected my Judaism. I thought if Jews blend in with non-Jews, there won’t be antisemitism.”
“I love having this spiritual way of looking at the world that is just beyond what I see with my physical eyes.”
“Jewish prophecy says there will come a time of peace, and I believe we are evolving towards that.”
“Chabad is very not insular. It’s very out there, out there, out there all the time.”