Why did Michelle Obama visit the Prague grave of Rabbi Judah Loew? Why is Loew known as the “Maharal” and why is he a national hero in the Czech Republic? Did he create the golem and perform miracles, as legends attest? Is he arguably the greatest Ashkenazic Jewish thinker?

Hear Dr. Byron L. Sherwin, a leading authority on Loew and a key participant in the worldwide commemoration of Loew’s 400th anniversary, as he explores the answers to these questions and more.

Dr. Byron L. Sherwin is a renowned theologian, ethicist, and scholar of Jewish philosophy and mysticism. He is a prodigious author often featured in print media and on radio and television. His books include Mystical Theology and Social Dissent: The Life and Works of Judah Loew of Prague as well as Golems Among Us, and the recently released The Life Worth Living. A member of the Spertus faculty since 1970, he currently serves as Distinguished Service Professor and Director of Doctoral Studies.

Recorded Sunday, December 06, 2009 at Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies.