For Such a Time as This: On Being Jewish Today

A poignant exploration of what it means to be Jewish today, from a leading voice in modern Judaism, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove of Park Avenue Synagogue

For Jews today, the attack on Israel on October 7th has drawn a clear and irreversible demarcation in time. On that day, the Jewish community woke up to an unrecognizable new reality, witnessing the stark rise in modern antisemitism, the world’s oldest hatred, in its wake.

But even in this dark hour, the Jewish community is experiencing something profound and beautiful: a deep, abiding connection to community, culture, and faith. Drawing on the rich trove of Jewish history and tradition, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove, one of today’s most influential thought leaders and spiritual guides, helps readers make sense of this fraught time and the future of Jewish identity. With warmth and wisdom, Rabbi Cosgrove explores the challenging questions embedded in the soul of contemporary Jewry. Where did all this antisemitism come from, and was it always there? How have Israel and Zionism shaped American Judaism and the complexities of Israel-diaspora relations, and what ties us and divides us today? How do we practice Judaism and understand our place in a world that has, without fail, in every century, turned against us?

Knitting together personal storytelling with ancient teachings, this timely book on Jewish faith helps navigate and understand the landscape of this new reality, turning over questions that have no clear or easy answer in the way only a very good rabbi can.

For thousands of years, the Jewish people have wrestled with what it means to be Jewish. In this often divisive era, Rabbi Cosgrove reminds of how we can come together despite—and even because of—our differences. For Such a Time as This is a guide for a new generation that is reconciling the past with the present and facing the unknown future with courage, spirit, and unwavering hope.

In this essential work of Jewish leadership, Rabbi Cosgrove provides clarity and hope for our time:

• A Guide for a New Reality: Confronting the questions that have defined Jewish life since the October 7th attack—from rising antisemitism to the unbreakable bonds of community.
• Zionism and American Judaism: An honest look at what ties diaspora Jews to Israel and what divides us, exploring the complex relationship for a new generation.
• Wisdom for a Fraught Time: Drawing on ancient teachings and personal stories, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove offers a pastoral voice to help navigate grief, anger, and fear with unwavering hope.
• The Enemy Within: An urgent call to bridge our differences, arguing that the greatest risk to the Jewish people is not an external foe but the baseless hatred (sinat hinam) that divides us.

"Weaving together illuminating stories and Talmudic wisdom, For Such a Time as This is a beautiful exploration of Judaism and Jewish faith in these challenging times. This insightful book is a balm for difficult days – at once a reminder of where we come from, and a vision for a more peaceful, united future.” - Debra Messing

"Elliot Cosgrove's rabbinic voice is a source of strength and clarity for so many, especially as we navigate this time of rupture and moral confusion. His words are wise, thoughtful, and critically important." - Rabbi Sharon Brous, founder of IKAR and author of The Amen Effect

“In For Such a Time as This: On Being Jewish Today, Rabbi Cosgrove puts the October 7 attacks — and the alarming rise in antisemitism that’s occurring in its wake — into historical context. He reminds us that Jews have always persevered and we will do so again. During such a difficult, frightening moment for Jews around the world, this compelling book will bring you hope.” - Sheryl Sandberg, Founder, Lean In

"Drawing on his experience as a prominent congregational rabbi, Rabbi Cosgrove, a friend and colleague, reflects on what it means to be Jewish in contemporary America and in global society.  With admirable sensitivity to the plight of innocent Palestinians, he rightly probes the gut-wrenching rise in antisemitism in the wake of the horrific October 7th attacks, and he calls on all people of conscience to take action against such hatred. Rabbi Cosgrove, with his characteristic lucidity, shows himself to be a religious leader 'for such a time as this.'” - Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Archbishop of New York

“Elliot Cosgrove, a rabbi (teacher) in every sense, has written a modern-day guide for the perplexed, imbued with insight, humanity, and wisdom to help Jews and non-Jews alike navigate these confusing, difficult times. You owe it to yourself to read this.” - Dr. Richard Haass, President Emeritus, Council on Foreign Relations

“With clarity and unique insights, Rabbi Cosgrove distills the complex realities of modern Jewish identity, including Israel-Diaspora relations, the relationship between Zionism and Judaism, contemporary antisemitism, and the role of Jewish practice.” - Adam Lehman, President and CEO, Hillel International

“A thoughtful guide for those grappling with the complexities of modern Jewish life, encouraging readers to embrace their heritage, confront challenges with resilience, and find joy and hope in their Jewish identity.” - San Diego Jewish World

"Cosgrove expertly navigates salient questions about Jewish faith and identity against a backdrop of rising antisemitism…. This is an eye opener." - Publishers Weekly

"Searching, soulful reading for exceedingly difficult times." - Kirkus Reviews

"Thought­ful and ana­lyt­ic as well as per­son­al and emotional... For Such a Time as This is an impor­tant book that high­lights the chal­lenges fac­ing lib­er­al Judaism today." - Jewish Book Council

"Rabbi Cosgrove has inspired and guided our congregation with great distinction for the past 16 years. With For Such a Time as This, he answers questions and resolves — or, in some cases, reinforces — doubts, helping to chart a course for American Jews far beyond his Park Avenue Synagogue community." - Menachem Z. Rosensaft, Jewish Insider