Harold Kushner

Date of Birth: April 3, 1935

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Biography

Harold Samuel Kushner is a prominent American rabbi and author, best known for his inspirational and thought-provoking books on faith, resilience, and the human spirit. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Kushner pursued his theological education at Columbia University and later at the Jewish Theological Seminary. He holds a Master’s degree in Hebrew literature and was ordained as a rabbi in 1960. Over his career, Kushner served as the congregational rabbi of Temple Israel in Natick, Massachusetts, where he became a revered spiritual leader. Kushner gained international fame with his book “When Bad Things Happen to Good People,” published in 1981. The book was inspired by his own personal tragedy – the death of his son Aaron at the age of 14 from the incurable genetic disease progeria. This profound loss prompted Kushner to explore the nature of suffering and the ways people can find faith and hope amid life’s challenges. His works have been translated into over a dozen languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. Kushner’s writings extend beyond his most famous book; he has authored numerous other works such as “Living a Life That Matters” and “The Lord Is My Shepherd.” He has received numerous awards for his contributions to literature and the Jewish community, including the Christopher Medal and the Jewish Book Council Lifetime Achievement Award. Rabbi Kushner is widely respected for his compassionate approach to theology and his ability to address universal human concerns through the lens of Jewish wisdom.

5 Interesting Facts about Harold Kushner

1. Harold Kushner’s book “When Bad Things Happen to Good People” has sold over 4 million copies.

2. He served as the congregational rabbi at Temple Israel of Natick for 24 years.

3. Kushner’s son Aaron suffered from progeria, a rare genetic condition that causes rapid aging.

4. He has appeared on numerous television programs, including “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and “Good Morning America.”

5. Kushner was named Rabbi Laureate of Temple Israel of Natick in recognition of his service and impact.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Harold Kushner

1. “I think of life as a good book. The further you get into it, the more it begins to make sense.”

2. “The purpose of life is not to get used to the dark, but to light a candle in the dark.”

3. “Pain is the price we pay for being alive.”

4. “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.”

5. “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.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

$2 million (approximate)

Children

Harold Kushner had two children, Aaron and Ariel. Aaron, who inspired his most famous work, tragically passed away at the age of 14 due to progeria. His daughter Ariel has followed in her father’s footsteps in contributing to Jewish education and community life.