Western Civilization Absent Jesus?

Conservative Support for the Talmud is Growing

Meir Soloveichik—an eminent Orthodox rabbi and intellectual affiliated with Yeshiva University—has become one of the leading advocates of the growing movement which maintains that the Talmud is not only compatible with Western civilization but integral to its moral and intellectual foundation. Conservatives are endorsing it.

48-year old Rabbi Dr. Soloveichik (PhD. Princeton University), argues that the Talmudic tradition should not be seen as foreign to the West, but rather as one of its essential sources. He is part of a larger campaign to embed Talmudic theology within the narrative of Western civilization, much like the Greco-Roman traditions and the papal Renaissance. This involves several overlapping strategies. For example he emphasizes “ethical monotheism” (so does Islam, as did the pharaoh Akhenaten). In light of Christ’s gospel, the assertion is hollow. (John 14:6).