Which Idols Do You Believe In?

By Rabbi Deb Smith

This week Chai Mitzvah began a new five-session series called Critical Conversations. Our first session focused on the topic of “Modern Day Idolatry (Lies About Power).”

We had a very energetic conversation about the definition of monotheism and what it means to believe in idols. How does the concept of idols differ from ancient times to today? Our concept of idols has evolved and expanded to include science, money,  technology, or anything that we raise up and to which we ascribe a unique status of power or authority.

We explored idolatrous practices that we may engage in our every day lives, and also looked at what the long-term consequences might be to ourselves and others for the idolatrous practices we may choose to follow.

Our discussion included taking a hard look at concepts, such as Slavery, Nazism, and Apartheid and the way in which leaders of these movements controlled and harmed others.  We also pondered what makes an idolatrous leader – What traits define a leader as idolatrous?

Finally, what part does responsibility for others play in the role of leaders? Are leaders responsible for those they lead, and if so, how can they balance power and responsibility?