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Reply to Michael Zieglers Critique

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Conservative Judaism's dual role as both preserver and innovator of Jewish law reflects a sophisticated theological framework rooted in the concept of "catholic Israel" - the historical community of observant Jews whose collective consciousness validates legal evolution through divine guidance. In response to Michael Ziegler's critique, a careful analysis reveals how Conservative Judaism's approach to halakhic methodology aligns with traditional jurisprudence while addressing contemporary ethical imperatives. Drawing on Zecharias Frankel and Solomon Schechter's theological foundations, this defense demonstrates that revelation operates primarily through communal interpretation rather than direct divine communication, embodying the principle that "God wants the human - also in His revelation." Classical rabbinic literature provides numerous precedents where ethical considerations prompted legal modifications, establishing historical continuity for Conservative Judaism's adaptive approach. The methodology enables responsible evolution of Jewish law, particularly regarding modern challenges like women's rights, while maintaining authentic connection to tradition. Rather than undermining halakhic authority, this pluralistic framework represents a natural continuation of Judaism's most dynamic periods of legal interpretation, offering a balanced path between preservation and necessary innovation in Jewish legal thought.

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    Published 1980

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    Seymour Siegel