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Earlier in today's show one of the callers said that she associates the phrase "prophetic voice" with right wing religious politics. But that's why it's so important for people like Barack Obama and his supporters to make the "prophetic voice" understood for what it really means. The term itself includes the word "prophetic" and calls to mind the prophets of the Torah or Old Testament who took personal risks by pointing out what the leaders should be doing to help the people, and by pointing out what wasn't being done. The prophets called for action to restore justice and to show compassion. That is the prophetic voice Barack Obama's campaign is bringing to the political conversation, and the campaign is doing it with respect for individuals of all backgrounds. That's also the kind of work that many of the more liberal religious groups have been doing for decades without as much publicity as the right wing.

I also wanted to respond to one caller's reference to religion having the "one" answer versus the coalition required in politics. That is also a view reinforced by some of the more right-wing religious groups. For a long time now, and even more so since 9-11, religious leaders from many faiths have been coming together to promote understanding, acceptance, and coalition-building. My rabbi in Portland, Aryeh Hirschfield, for instance, has invited a minister and an imam to speak at our High Holy Day services several times, and he leads many interfaith efforts with the goal of promoting respect and understanding.

posted 4 years, 9 months ago
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