From Defender to Critic: The Search for a New Jewish Self

With this intelligent and heartfelt volume, Hartman, a former yeshiva student and pulpit rabbi, continues his critique of Orthodox Judaism’s reliance upon halakha even at moments when it creates disappointment or despair. The octogenarian asserts that while halakha certainly has its place in Jewish life, modernity demands that updates be implemented and that room be made for personal religious autonomy. He grapples with normative explanations of Jewish laws and biblical narratives, including the story of Abraham and his near-sacrifice of Isaac. There, he finds that instead of the biblical story demonstrating Abraham’s loyalty and love toward God, it highlights an incomprehensible adherence to commandments. Evaluating the theological philosophies of Jewish thinkers from Maimonides to Spinoza to Soloveitchik, Hartman argues that halakha as it stands alienates an already disgruntled Jewish community and fosters a religious experience lacking in joy or initiative. As with his other books, Hartman’s assertions are unconventional and controversial, and bring important issues to the table. (May)