Oprah connects to values of Judaism

The Haggadah, our guide at the seder table that retells the story of our Exodus from Egypt, is a compendium of Jewish values and traditions.

For many, the lessons learned and shared by Oprah Winfrey, America's media proprietor, talk show host, actress, producer and philanthropist, have had a similar affect as the Haggadah: the betterment of the human condition.

After ending her eponymous, multiple-award-winning talk show in 2011, Winfrey has since directed all her energies into her specialty channel the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) as well as to her special Sunday night series Oprah's next chapter.

Following a recent visit to chassidic neighborhoods in Brooklyn, Winfrey sat down with Rabbi Motti Seligson to reflect on what she had seen and heard. With a strong belief system of her own, it was easy for her to see that we are all more alike than we are different. The important role of women as the foundation of family, harmony, grace and graciousness in the home and the healthy development of children, were core values that resonated greatly with the media titan.




During the time of Passover we remember and give thanks to G-d for freeing us from the chains of slavery. Being free to live in the world, to unite and inspire others towards maximizing humankind's potential, spreads values to be shared by all.