Dr. Joshua Furnal
I found Heschel's emphasis on the wonder that we are . . . profound.
Assistant Professor, Systematic Theology, St. Patrick’s Pontifical University
Maynooth, Ireland
A Catholic Perspective
Where did you first encounter Heschel’s work?
As a young student, I read his theological writings, but it was through his daughter, Susannah, that I encountered his writings in a more personal way when I was lecturing on religious existentialism at Dartmouth.
How did Heschel and his thinking inspire your work, religious life, or civic engagement?
For me as a Roman Catholic, I find Heschel’s involvement in shaping Nostra Aetate with Cardinal Bea is something that needs more attention. Heschel’s treatment of Kierkegaard is something that I hope to explore further when an opportunity presents itself.
What of Heschel lives in you?
I found Heschel’s emphasis on the wonder that we are, which awakens us to action, profound. This quote highlights Heschel’s approach to the Torah:
We sail because our mind is like a fantastic seashell, and when applying our ear to its lips we hear a perpetual murmur from the waves beyond the shore.
Additional Text:
The Time and Name of Mercy: Rabbi Abraham Heschel and Pope Francis in Dialogue
