Presented by Gideon Amir

In the realm of theological discourse, the concept of "Choseness" has sparked numerous debates and diverse interpretations. From historical perspectives to modern-day discussions, the notion of being "The Chosen People" remains a complex and multifaceted subject.

Our study will delve into the origins of "choseness" as depicted in the Bible, examining the various interpretations and counter-interpretations that have emerged over generations.

Registration is no longer open for this program. You can enjoy the recording of this talk, and many others on our Program Recording Archive.

Thank you to Raymond Scalettar, MD, DSc for sponsoring this lecture. He dedicates this talk in memory of Rabbis Norman Gerstenfeld, Joshua O. Haberman, and Joseph P. Weinberg of the Washington Hebrew Congregation, in appreciation for their positive impact on his family.

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Gideon Amir was born in Holland to Holocaust survivors who immigrated to Israel in 1947.  He grew up in Jerusalem and served in the IDF as a Paratrooper.

Gideon received his Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem and a Master’s degree in Computer Science from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rechovot. In 1980, he moved to the United States, where he worked as a manager in several companies including Sperry Univac, British Telecom, and Cisco Systems.

In 1999, he pursued his interest in Judaic Studies and enrolled in a full-time graduate program at Baltimore Hebrew University, where, in May 2001, he received his Master’s degree with honors. Redirecting his passion for teaching from computer science to Jewish and Bible studies, he became an adult Jewish educator for several education programs, including the Haberman Institute, where he continues to teach today.