Alon Goshen-Gottstein

Alon Goshen-Gottstein is a prominent figure in the field of interreligious dialogue and Jewish studies. He is the founder and Executive Director of the Elijah Interfaith Institute, a position he has held since 1997.14

Academic Background

Born in England in 1956, Goshen-Gottstein is an Israeli scholar with extensive academic credentials:

• He holds a Ph.D. from Hebrew University of Jerusalem, completed in 1986.2
• His academic focus includes Jewish studies, theology, and comparative religion.3
• He has taught at various Israeli universities and held positions at institutions like Tel Aviv University and Beit Morasha College in Jerusalem.1

Interfaith Work

Goshen-Gottstein is widely recognized for his contributions to interfaith dialogue:

• He founded the Elijah Interfaith Institute in 1997, which evolved from a consortium of Jerusalem-based theological schools into a global network of religious leaders and scholars.2
• His work bridges theological and academic dimensions with practical initiatives involving world religious leadership.1
• He has organized numerous interfaith conferences and dialogues, including a series of Buddhist-Muslim dialogues.1

Publications and Recognition

Goshen-Gottstein is a prolific author and editor:

• He has published several monographs and edited volumes on topics ranging from rabbinic thought to interfaith relations.2
• Notable works include "The Sinner and the Amnesiac: The Rabbinic Invention of Elisha ben Abuya and Eleazar ben Arach" and "Luther the Anti-Semite: A Contemporary Jewish Perspective".2

His contributions to interfaith relations have been recognized internationally, including being named a "Figure of Reconciliation" by the Polish Council of Christians and Jews.2

Personal Approach

Goshen-Gottstein's approach to interfaith work is characterized by:

• A focus on spirituality across religions and personal relationships with leaders from various faiths.2
• An emphasis on friendship as a key component of his vision and work in interfaith relations.3
• A belief in the importance of re-owning religion on a higher level, promoting growth rather than power or control.3

In addition to his academic and interfaith work, Goshen-Gottstein has also recorded Hasidic music, demonstrating the breadth of his engagement with Jewish culture and spirituality.2