Srinithi Raj Week 1 Word

 Eke (v): According to Merriam-Webster, eke is defined as, "to get [something] with great difficulty"

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eke

In The Chosen, Reuven describes the simple, rather tough material existence of Hasidic Jews who have a rich spiritual existence. I came across Reuven’s description of Hasidic Jews as: “They could be seen behind their counters, wearing black skull caps, full beards and long earlocks, eking out their meager livelihoods [...]”

This word was one of my favorites from this week. Whenever I think about words that are synonyms for barely making out a living, I can usually only think of the ever-popular idiomatic expression "struggling to make ends meet." Knowing the definition of eke, I have now learned a new and more complex/sophisticated way to describe one's impecuniosity.

I also appreciate Potok's use of eke in this context. As a Jewish person himself, Potok spends much time in The Chosen elaborating upon the rich culture followed by pious Jews, and I think this quote sheds light upon some of the seemingly difficult lifestyle choices some of these Jews gladly choose to make in order to reach religious fulfillment.

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