The Beit Midrash for Judaism and Humanity (Think Tank)

Ideas are the underlying infrastructure of human deeds. Hence, if we wish to impact human and societal behavior in the long run, we should aim to impact the world of ideas. Religious beliefs, thoughts, and traditions are all key in this context. Our goal is to propel a paradigm shift anchored in the core ideas that motivate people to act through original research and ideas.

We are not reforming our religious principles to align with external values, nor do we encourage or expect our non-Jewish partners to do so. Instead, we aim to foster new and creative thinking grounded in our traditional sources and establish the intellectual foundation for a paradigm shift. 

Our Beit Midrash for Judaism and Humanity (BMJH) is the primary vehicle for this effort. This think tank of prominent rabbis and academics serves as the production floor for the ideas that inform our interfaith work, field-building efforts, and connections with other faith leaders. The BMJH includes 6-8 fellows annually who meet on a weekly basis. Together, they study Jewish perceptions on other religions as well as the core ideas of other faiths, while looking for potential bridges for reconciliation. Members of the BMJH are also the best-trained and well-equipped (intellectually) human resource at the Interfaith Center’s disposal, representing us on various local, national, and international stages. 

In 2022, the BMJH published its first book in Hebrew: God Shall Be One: Reenvisioning Judaism’s Approach to Other Religions. The book reviews and analyzes diverse opinions of leading Jewish scholars regarding other religions, and lays the foundation for a renewed Jewish approach to other the religions of the world. An English translation was published in 2024.

In 2024, the booklet “Jewish-Muslim Religious Fraternity: A Renewed Paradigm for a Shared Future” was also released, which lays the infrastructure for a Jewish-Muslim reconciliation (it is available in English). 

in 2025, the book: And They Shall Live With You: Minorities in a Jewish State – Responsibility and Partnership” was released. It deals with the relationship between a Jewish majority and a non-Jewish minority in a Jewish state, from a halachic (Jewish law) perspective. Additional planned publications include Abrahamic Religions and the Prophetic Vision, an interfaith guide for diplomats, and a review of Muslim-Jewish Encounters. The BMJH also supports the Interfaith Center’s secondary publications and social media activity.