The Sephardic Initiative
Reviving Classic Sephardic Wisdom for the 21st Century
The Sephardic Initiative is a series of educational programs, writings, and learning platforms led by SEC International Director Rabbi Daniel Bouskila that bring the intellectual tradition of Sephardic Judaism into the modern world.
Rooted in the teachings of great Sephardic sages — from Maimonides to Rabbi Benzion Meir Hai Uziel — this initiative seeks to present a Judaism that is thoughtful, inclusive, and deeply connected to both tradition and modern life.
Through writing, teaching, and public scholarship, Rabbi Bouskila is helping revive the classic Sephardic voice for a new generation.
A Tradition with Vision
Sephardic Judaism for the 21st Century
Rabbi Bouskila’s research articulates the guiding principles of Classic Sephardic Judaism in the 21st Century.
Through essays and teachings, his research explores:
• The moderate and pragmatic Sephardic halachic tradition
• The leadership philosophy of Rabbi Benzion Meir Hai Uziel
• The Sephardic model of Jewish unity and inclusiveness
• A Judaism that embraces modern society without abandoning tradition
These teachings serve as a blueprint for a renewed Sephardic intellectual movement.
Rediscovering Israel’s First Sephardic Chief Rabbi
A central focus of Rabbi Bouskila’s work is reviving the legacy of Rabbi Benzion Meir Hai Uziel, the first Sephardic Chief Rabbi of the State of Israel.
Rabbi Uziel’s teachings champion:
• Love of all Jews
• Intellectual openness
• Halachic courage
• National unity
Through lectures, essays, and educational programming, Rabbi Bouskila continues to introduce Rabbi Uziel’s philosophy to new audiences around the world.