The Chosen, a novel written by Chaim Potok, is filled with a variety of themes that are brought together through each individual chapter. Chapter 7 of the book had a major impact on the theme of the novel. For example, in this chapter, the narrator Reuven begins by establishing the basic plot. He states, “The next day I met Danny’s father” (Potok 112). Having this storyline established is key to the chapter because this is the day that could make or break their friendship in a matter of seconds. Reuven and Danny Saunders have become friends since the incident at the ball game. Yet there is conflict in their friendship. Danny is a Hasidic Jew and follows the strict rules and beliefs of the Hasidic faith. Reuven, on the other hand, is an Orthodox Jew who does not follow all traditional customs, but honors his faith. Reverend Saunders, Danny's father, overhears his son talking about his relationship with Reuven Matler and wants to meet the young teenager to approve this company. Danny never had a friend who wasn't a Hasidic Jew. This begins to show in part how the two must overcome many obstacles in order to maintain their friendship and let it grow. Another example in this chapter that supports the basic plot is how Reverend Saunders not only questions Danny about the Talmud lecture, but unexpectedly questions Reuven. He had to test the boy, not only to approve him as Danny's friend, but also to see how much David Malter's son knew. Reverend Saunders approaches Reuven and says, “I am glad that my Daniel has chosen you as a friend. My son has many friends. But he doesn’t talk about it the way he talks about you” (141). He approves of his son's friendship with Reuven Malter. Danny and Reuven are in the middle of a paper...finding themselves together, they realize that they are not meant to be enemies, but friends. Over the course of the novel, they work tirelessly to maintain the bonds of their friendship and triumph over every obstacle they face (getting Reverend Saunders to approve their friendship, overcoming the fact that Danny put Reuven in the hospital, or having to put their friendship at the lowest level). waiting when both become too involved in their own lives and activities). As Rev. Saunder said, “You think it’s easy to be a friend? If you are truly his friend, you will discover the opposite” (142). They balance each other and are there to support each other no matter what. They sometimes express different points of view or argue vigorously, but their friendship never ceases to exist. Works Cited Potok, Chaim. The elected officials. Fawcett, 1982. Print.