The last two centuries have brought radical changes to our understanding of the world. The physical and social sciences have provided us with new insights. Philosophical systems, very different from those of earlier ages, have been developed. This has had a major effect on our view of Judaism and its traditions. Judaism was partially shielded from the earlier changes brought about by the Renaissance. However, industrialisation and the revolutions of the 18th Century, which led to the Emancipation, changed all this and gradually affected all spheres of Jewish life. This volume investigates the...

THE FREEHOF INSTITUTE OF PROGRESSIVE HALAKHAH The Freehof Institute of Progressive Halakhah is a creative research center devoted to studying and defining the progressive character of the halakhah in accordance with the principles and theology of Reform Judaism. It seeks to establish the ideological basis of Progressive halakhah, and its application to daily life. The Institute fosters serious studies, and helps scholars in various portions of the world to work together for a common cause. It provides an ongoing forum through symposia, and publications including the quarterly newsletter,...