Harold Kushner

Date of Birth: April 3, 1935

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Biography

Harold Samuel Kushner is an American rabbi and author, renowned for his compassionate and insightful approach to the challenges of faith and life. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Kushner pursued his higher education at Columbia University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in 1955. He went on to receive his rabbinical ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary of America in 1960, where he also earned a Master’s degree in Hebrew literature. Kushner’s early career saw him serving as a congregational rabbi in Massachusetts, where his empathetic approach quickly earned him a devoted following. Kushner gained widespread acclaim with his seminal work, “When Bad Things Happen to Good People,” published in 1981. Written following the loss of his son Aaron to progeria, a rare and fatal disease, the book addresses profound theological questions and offers comfort to those grappling with suffering and loss. His writings often explore the intersection of faith, ethics, and human experience, making complex theological concepts accessible to a broad audience. In addition to “When Bad Things Happen to Good People,” Kushner has authored several other influential books, including “Living a Life That Matters” and “The Lord Is My Shepherd.” His works have been translated into numerous languages, touching lives around the globe. Kushner continues to be a prominent voice in contemporary Judaism and a sought-after speaker on issues of faith, morality, and personal growth.

5 Interesting Facts about Harold Kushner

1. Harold Kushner served as the congregational rabbi of Temple Israel in Natick, Massachusetts, for 24 years.

2. His book “When Bad Things Happen to Good People” has sold over four million copies worldwide.

3. Kushner has received numerous honorary doctorates from institutions including Hebrew Union College and the Jewish Theological Seminary.

4. He has been featured on programs such as “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and “PBS NewsHour.”

5. Kushner was named one of the 50 greatest rabbis in America by Newsweek in 2007.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Harold Kushner

1. “God’s job is not to make sick people healthy. That’s the doctor’s job. God’s job is to make sick people brave.”

2. “I believe that it is not our job to feel better about tragedy, but to feel better because of it.”

3. “Our souls are not hungry for fame, comfort, wealth, or power. Those rewards create almost as many problems as they solve. Our souls are hungry for meaning.”

4. “Pain is the price we pay for being alive. Dead cells – our hair, our fingernails – can feel no pain; they cannot feel anything.”

5. “We are here to change the world with small acts of thoughtfulness done daily rather than with one great breakthrough.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Harold Kushner’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $2 million, primarily accrued from book sales and speaking engagements.

Children

Harold Kushner and his wife, Suzette, had two children: a daughter, Ariel, and a son, Aaron. Aaron was born with progeria, a rare genetic condition that causes accelerated aging in children, and he passed away at the age of 14. Ariel has pursued a career in education and continues to honor her family’s legacy.