The Cardozo Academy seeks to restore the relevance of Judaism as a force of authentic, non-dogmatic religiosity, capturing a lifetime of exploration, contemplation, and dialogue by Rabbi Nathan Lopes Cardozo.
With the generous support of the Aron and Betsy Spijer Foundation.
In Moses and Parashat Chukat by Calev Ben-Dor
When does a leader know it is time to let go?
At the Waters of Meriva, Moshe brings forth water from the rock—but immediately afterward learns that he will never enter the Promised Land. For centuries, commentators have debated what mistake he made.
But what if the story is not primarily about sin and punishment?
Drawing on biblical text, rabbinic commentary, and modern reflections on leadership, Calev Ben-Dor explores a different possibility: that the episode marks a profound moment of transition, when even the greatest leader must recognize that a new generation requires a different kind of guide.
What does true leadership demand? And how does one balance the courage to lead with the wisdom to remain connected to those who follow?
In Moses and Parashat Korach by Yael Shahar
Korach's rebellion was about more than challenging Moshe and Aharon. Beneath the drama lies a profound question: How can a society create authority without allowing power to become absolute?
After this war is won, the next great challenge facing the State of Israel will be the possibility that its soldiers will one day refuse to serve and defend this country. How long will we be able to rely on the Israeli army if its combatants do not realize what it is they are fighting for? It is important that they know that they are defending an idea and a holy mission which far surpasses the defense of a piece of land!
The art of creative abstinence
In Parashat Emor and Shabbat by Rabbi Nathan Lopes Cardozo
When the light of the setting sun announces the entrance of Shabbat, a miracle happens: the light assumes the quality of light in a Rembrandt painting. The light slows down. It strolls! There is no way to see the strolling of the light unless one actually opens the door to let it in. One cannot talk about mystery. One must be grasped by it. And that is only possible when insight and creative inaction become one.
The Day of National Mourning
Tisha B’Av refuses the comfort of resolution. It is a day devoted to remembering wounds that have never fully healed. By mourning destruction long past, we protest the illusion that history simply moves on. The fast strips away distraction, forcing us to confront the cost of hatred, indifference, and spiritual arrogance. Tisha B’Av insists that redemption cannot be rushed, and that forgetting is itself a moral failure. Only a people willing to grieve honestly can hope to rebuild without repeating the same catastrophes.
9 Av 5786
Begins at Sundown on Wednesday, July 22, 2026
Ends at Nightfall on Thursday, July 23, 2026
The David Cardozo Academy seeks to restore the relevance of Judaism as a force of authentic, non-dogmatic religiosity.
The David Cardozo Academy fosters a Judaism that is intellectually rigorous, spiritually alive, and courageously non-dogmatic. Founded by Rabbi Nathan Lopes Cardozo, we convene scholars, seekers, and communities to explore Torah and Halacha that are alive and shape contemporary life. Through essays, lectures, study circles, and creative partnerships, we nurture bold thought, honest struggle, and moral purpose—so Jews can live their tradition with depth, curiosity, and joy.
Modernity and the rebirth of Jewish sovereignty confront us with questions our ancestors did not face. Our manifesto calls for a renewed Judaism—faithful to its sources yet unafraid of complexity. We champion dissent and creativity as engines of Torah; Halacha as a dynamic framework, not rote habit; education that prizes inquiry over conformity. This is a call to think big, wrestle truthfully, and rekindle Judaism’s mission for Israel and for humanity.
Let’s build this future together. Connect with the David Cardozo Academy to host a lecture or explore partnership opportunities. Join our mailing list to get Thoughts to Ponder by Rabbi Cardozo and Cardozo Academy scholars delivered straight to your inbox. Whether you’re a learner, leader, donor, or curious skeptic, we welcome your voice and your questions. Reach out—and help us renew a living, relevant Judaism for the next generation.
Rabbi Sacks Testimonial
“Rabbi Nathan Lopes Cardozo has emerged as one of the most thoughtful voices in contemporary Judaism. He is a man of deep faith and wide intellectual horizons, unafraid to confront the challenges of the age with the quiet confidence of one who is attuned to the music of eternity.”
The Book of Numbers
Published: 2026
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