Why ‘The Jewish Genius Initiative’ started

By Stanley Tiger

Stanley Tiger
Stanley Tiger

SAN DIEGO — “I’m sorry…I’m sorry…I’m sorry.” These words still ring in my heart.

As a schoolboy about ten years of age on my way to afternoon Hebrew school, on the other side of the street I saw a young Chassidic boy, about my age, getting pushed to the ground by two bullies. He looked up at them plaintively repeating his apology. The bullies then walked away.

As I grew up, I learned and studied more to discover what it means to be Jewish. The more I learned, the more I learned to marvel – coming to a realization that being Jewish never needs an apology. To the contrary, it should ignite a feeling of deep thankfulness.

We express this in our brief inspiring video seen on our Kickstarter. Just Click Here.

It is to this end that “The Jewish Genius initiative” has been launched. With the assistance and participation of friends and well-wishers, we have produced this compelling video incorporating the works of 125 artists and photographers.

I looked at literally thousands of photos of works of art and fine photographs. After collecting 400 of the best works and then choosing the best, I have been gratified to receive high compliments for the previews – the entire project comes from the heart.

Also, we hear about recent studies showing how many young people are prone to casual intermarriage or are indifferent to their heritage – producing a chorus call for the application of “imagination” and “innovation” to reverse the trends.

The Initiative contends that Judaism possesses an abundance of genius that is self-evident in many ways; from the mystery of its longevity, to the many great people it has given rise to, to its never-ending quest for eternal Wisdom. I now find myself confronted with the question that I want more people to ask, “Why would anyone NOT want to be Jewish?”

If there are any shortcomings in the way that Jewish heritage is passed down, it seems to be in the realm of deep realization. The more we engage in study, the more we attain knowledge. The more we contemplate knowledge, the more we achieve insight. It is this insight that results in the inevitable; realization – described as both a knowledge and respect for the magnitude of the cultural, intellectual and spiritual wealth that we have inherited.

It is this realization that must be passed down as heartfelt and conscious thankfulness. This is the thankfulness that can lift the doubts and indifferent attitudes, cutting through them – like a knife through a proverbial block of cream cheese.

“Kibbitzing” (kidding) about cultural cuisine aside, The Jewish Genius Initiative is designed to explore Judaism through the direct words, accomplishments and stories of inspirational people who have been influenced by Jewish heritage. By asking well considered questions and probing for deeper insights, The Jewish Genius initiative will pass down “tribal wisdom” as a powerful inducement to heart-felt thankfulness.

They say, “a picture0 is worth a thousand words.” I invite you to enjoy the equivalent of 125,000 words contained in the brief video we have prepared. Simply click here.

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Tiger is a freelance writer and film maker based in San Diego.