God Gender and Liturgy
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When Conservative Judaism grapples with gendered language in prayer, fundamental questions emerge about tradition, inclusion, and religious authenticity. An illuminating scholarly exchange, sparked by Rabbi Jules Harlow's "Feminist Linguistics and Jewish Liturgy," reveals deep divisions over modifying God-language while supporting gender-inclusive references to people. Through critical analysis of liturgical texts, translation practices, and theological implications of Hebrew prayers, four scholars offer contrasting perspectives: Mindell Kaplan exposes inconsistencies in translation and advocates including matriarchs in the Amidah; Ari Kelman challenges the notion that masculine terminology can be gender-neutral; Rabbi Harold Kushner defends traditional formulations while acknowledging gender fluidity in rabbinic literature; and Rabbi Harlan Wechsler advocates preserving classical prayer language. Their debate crystallizes around whether traditional masculine references to God are genuinely inclusive or inherently exclusionary, how to balance Hebrew authenticity with English accessibility, and the theological ramifications of liturgical innovation. In his response, Rabbi Harlow reaffirms his support for women's participation while defending his linguistic and theological stance. This exchange illuminates the ongoing tension within Conservative Judaism between preserving liturgical tradition and addressing contemporary gender consciousness, revealing how language choices in worship reflect deeper theological and social commitments within Jewish communities.

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Published 1997
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