From the Stacks: June 1, 2007

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Writers Elie Wiesel and Leonard Fein founded Moment in 1975 to chronicle and explore the American Jewish experience. A staple of the engaging magazine is its 'Ask the Rabbis' department, which challenges rabbis from various sects to answer a pressing question. The June issue's query -- 'What does Judaism say about being a workaholic?' -- draws some interesting insights. Rabbi Arthur Waskow chimes in for Renewal Judaism, connecting overwork to the unfair employment patterns that leave many people with two or three part-time jobs: 'As Jews,' says Waskow, 'we should affirm our religious obligation to change the present patterns of overwork so that all peoples' work can be worthy and sacred.' Conservative Rabbi Gary L. Atkins comically bristles ('This is a question you ask a rabbi?') before speaking of the importance of honoring Shabbat in order to rest and spend time within one's family and community, while Reform Rabbi Joui Hessel holds up workaholic Ari Gold of Entourage as a warning against prioritizing a job over important relationships and Holy Days. Also a highlight of the issue: Ron Rosenbaum interviews novelist Norman Mailer about his latest book, The Castle in the Forest. -- Julie Dolan

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