Modern Approach to Orthodox Judaism: Azriel Hildesheimer (1820-1899) and Rab biner-Seminar Fuer Das Orthodoxe Judentum

The Enlightenment period and the subsequent emancipation process marked the beginning of a new phase of change and transformation for European Jews. The idea of change that is intended to be integrated with the modern world has also manifested itself in the religious field. In the 19th century, some approaches that sought harmony with modernity also emerged between Reform Judaism and the traditional religious understanding, which represented two opposite poles while adhering to the basic teachings of the rabbinic tradition. German rabbi Azriel Hildesheimer (1820-1899) is among those who put forward a new vision in this direction. Rabbiner-Seminar Fuer Das Orthodoxe Judentum, founded under his leadership in Berlin, is the first Orthodox educational institution based on Wissenschaft des Judentums. Although he was subjected to intense criticism from the traditional wing during his time, Hildesheimer’s influence can be felt considerably in the context of the Orthodox tradition centred on Yeshiva University in the United States. With his attempt to provide open-mindedness to traditional religious thought, Hildesheimer was one of the few key f igures who shaped Modern Orthodox (Neo-Orthodox) Judaism. This article examines the nature, dimensions, and effects of Hildesheimer’s idea of modernising Orthodoxy.