Fathers strive to have a balance between giving freedom and providing guidance to their children. In Chaim Potok’s The Chosen, David Malter succeeds in doing so. He has a modern, flexible stance on Jewish religion and has trained up his son Reuven as such. For a living he writes articles on the Talmud, usually doing so in his windowless study by candlelight. The Talmud encompasses a large part of Jewish life, and Mr. Malter spends time helping Reuven study the Talmud and gently guiding him in the way he ought to act. Mr. Malter also understands the necessity of freedoms in life and allows Reuven to pursue his own interests and to experience the world around him. Through having respectful, fatherly, and edifying character traits, Mr. Malter keeps a good balance of freedom and direction to his son Reuven.
David Malter respects other people and their beliefs, better said; a combination of consideration and toleration of others. Showing respect for Danny and Reb Saunders, he therefore tolerates their belief and lifestyle of Hasidism. The Saunders and Hasidic Jews in general have strict traditional Jewish views compared to the modern Jewish views that Mr. Malter has. However, Mr. Malter shows his respect for Danny and Reb Saunders by allowing Reuven…show more content… Malter’s next visit to his son in the hospital, Reuven explains his anger and bitterness towards Danny when he came to apologize. Mr. Malter then gives his son sound advice about life from the Talmud “’You did a foolish thing, Reuven,’ he told me sternly. ‘You remember what the Talmud says. If a person comes to apologize for having hurt you, you must listen and forgive him.’”(68). This advice prompts Reuven to accept Danny’s apology, resulting in friendship down the line. Mr. Malter has other teachable moments like this with Reuven whenever appropriate moments arise. He always looks for a lesson to impart. The wise edification that Mr. Malter gives to Reuven remains trustworthy each
