Chaim Potok was an American author, playwright, and theologian who is best known for his novels “The Chosen,” “My Name is Asher Lev,” and “The Gift of Asher Lev.”
Personal and Family Life
Chaim Potok, born Herman Harold Potok, was raised in a Hasidic family in New York City and later moved to Philadelphia. He was married to Adena Sara Mosevitzsky from June 8, 1958, until his death in 2002, and they had three children: Rena, Naama, and Akiva. Chaim changed his first name from Herman to Chaim, reflecting his dedication to Jewish heritage.
Education and Career
After enjoying his studies in traditional Jewish texts, Chaim Potok graduated from Yeshiva University with a BA in English. He went on to earn a Master’s of Hebrew Literature and rabbinical ordination at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. In 1965, he achieved a PhD in philosophy from the University of Pennsylvania. Potok served as a Chaplain in the US Army during the Korean War and later became the Editor-in-Chief of the Jewish Publication Society of America.
Death and Legacy
Chaim Potok was diagnosed with cancer in April 2000 and passed away on July 23, 2002, in Merion, Pennsylvania. Despite his declining health, he continued to dictate a new novel to his wife in his final months. Potok’s works have left a significant impact on American literature, particularly in Jewish communities, and he is remembered for his deep exploration of faith and identity.
Filmography
| Role | Title | Year | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Talmud Teacher | The Chosen | 1981 | Actor |
| Role | Title | Year | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Novel | The Chosen | 1981 | Writer |