What if the best response to rising antisemitism isn’t fighting back—but rediscovering what it means to be Jewish?

In this special Kol Nidre sermon episode of "In Such a Time: Conversations on Jewish Life, Leadership and Meaning," Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe turns a conventional question inside out: How should the Jewish community respond to growing antisemitism? Instead of looking outward for acceptance or launching PR campaigns, Rabbi Jaffe urges listeners to look inward, strengthening Jewish identity and practice—for ourselves, not for external validation.

Rabbi Jaffe explores the pitfalls of centering Jewishness on defense and debate, drawing on incisive insights from Jean-Paul Sartre, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, and Sarah Hurwitz. He introduces the concept of the “reverse Marrano”: those publicly Jewish but privately disconnected from Jewish substance, and challenges the community to move from contentless identity to meaningful observance.

Through moving, real-life stories—from recent converts to lone soldiers, and families deepening their practice in the wake of October 7th—Rabbi Jaffe illustrates how crisis can become the catalyst for personal and communal transformation. The episode closes on a practical, hopeful note: small steps anyone can take to foster Jewish knowledge, pride, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Key highlights include:

• Why attempts at “better PR” or public empathy often fall short and can even be counterproductive
• The historical and philosophical roots of antisemitism, and why internal strength is a more resilient response
• Personal stories from within Rabbi Jaffe’s community that reveal powerful awakenings of Jewish identity after October 7th
• Actionable ways to build deeper Jewish practice—starting with making Shabbat meaningful at home

This is a must-listen for anyone grappling with Jewish identity, antisemitism, or spiritual resilience in challenging times.

Timestamped Overview:

• [00:00:00] Introduction and setting the stage for Kol Nidre and Yom Kippur reflections
• [00:00:20] Rabbi Jaffe frames the question: How should Jews respond to rising antisemitism?
• [00:01:55] The pitfalls of focusing on PR and defending against criticism
• [00:04:10] Why seeking approval or external validation is a losing strategy
• [00:05:17] Deep historical roots of antisemitism and modern implications for Israel
• [00:06:08] The call to turn inward and embrace authentic Jewish identity
• [00:06:53] The concept of the "reverse Marrano" and its relevance today
• [00:09:35] How October 7th triggered reassessment and stronger Jewish engagement
• [00:10:47] Stories of hostages and their families deepening Jewish observance
• [00:13:24] Three powerful stories from Rabbi Jaffe’s own community post-October 7th
• [00:14:48] Reflections on conversion and embracing Jewish identity despite adversity
• [00:15:36] The journey of a young man choosing to join the IDF as a lone soldier
• [00:17:00] Personal ritual shifts and building connection through Jewish practice
• [00:19:45] Moving from a reaction to hate toward building lasting, meaningful Jewish life
• [00:21:41] The potential for blessing born out of crisis
• [00:22:45] Practical, inspiring recommendations for deepening Jewish involvement
• [00:25:12] Closing and invitation to engage further

Listen now to be challenged, inspired, and empowered to answer hate not with defense, but with the strength of authentic living.