Questions for Discussion
The following discussion questions seek to draw out the
contemporary relevance of the themes addressed in As A Driven
Leaf. On its surface, the novel tells the story of Elisha,
caught in a struggle between his faith and an irrepressible
longing for reason. But Elisha's story transcends history with
its depiction of a timeless and perennial feature of the Jewish
experience: the inevitable conflict between the call of
tradition and that of the surrounding culture.
- Amram keeps Greek books away from Elisha to ensure that the
boy will grow up as a complete Jew. How can we insure that our
children will carry on the Jewish tradition?
- The Passover haggadah recites the narrative of the talmudic
sages in B'nai Brak discussing Pesah. The commentaries suggest
that the all-night session was held to consider rebellion
against Rome. What do you think of rabbis engaging in political
activism?
- The patriarch of the Sanhedrin was descended from the House
of Hillel. Some believed this birthright protected the office,
while others held that the position should have to be earned.
How should we select and retain Jewish leaders today?
- Greek culture and Roman oppression led many to question
Jewish values, such as whether a slave has rights, whether the
details of the Law hold any meaning, and whether practical
considerations outweigh the demands of Jewish jurisprudence.
What tenets of Judaism are being challenged today? How are we
responding?
- The death of Meir's children struck a great blow to
Elisha's faith. How can we keep our faith when we are tried by
life's vicissitudes?
- The clash between the Greek and Jewish cultures split the
community of ancient Palestine. In what way do Jews today find
ourselves in similar circumstances? How should we respond?
- Elisha is deeply troubled by his new doubts. What aspects
of Judaism have caused you to doubt?
- Discuss Job's challenge to God, "Wilt Thou harass a
driven leaf?" Why do you think Steinberg chose this for
his novel's title?
- Elisha observes that circumstances are leading to the end
of the Jewish people. Do you think that Jews in America are at
risk of vanishing? Explain your answer.
- "Revelation must be either accepted or rejected."
Do you agree that faith and reason are fundamentally
incompatible?
- Judaism outlived its persecutors because Judah ordained a
new generation of teachers and Akiva continued to expound the
Law in prison while awaiting his martyrdom. How can Judaism
assure its survival today, when it faces few pressing external
threats?
