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May the Words of Our Mouths Be Acceptable

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Can ancient prayers that express triumphalism and rejection of other faiths maintain their place in modern Conservative Judaism? Three problematic prayers in the Conservative Siddur - Birkat Ha-minim, passages from the Shabbat Amidah, and portions of Aleinu - fundamentally conflict with the movement's commitment to religious pluralism and interfaith dialogue. Through textual analysis and examination of halakhic responsa literature, this research reveals how these prayers unconsciously shape worshippers' attitudes through daily repetition, potentially fostering religious intolerance despite Conservative Judaism's stated pluralistic values. Historical precedents demonstrate that liturgical modification is permissible, as evidenced by previous changes like gender-inclusive language reforms and censorship of offensive passages. Yet Conservative Judaism's willingness to modify halakhic practices while maintaining problematic prayer texts represents a striking inconsistency that undermines its pluralistic principles. The findings support liturgical reform as both halakhically acceptable and ethically necessary to ensure Judaism's continued relevance in contemporary pluralistic society, while preserving its essential traditions.

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    Published 2013

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