xii Introduction

nineteenth century Europe it was possible here as the government had no interest in the religious path which we took. Complete freedom to practice as we wished, to change, or remain static was granted. The essays in this book will show how this has taken place.

The American freedom has increased the influence of the surrounding cultures. We felt free to learn from other groups and try new structures, customs, and patterns. Experimentation in every area of life and practice was possible for those who wished it, while others who wanted to isolate themselves within separate enclaves were free to do so.

The essays in this volume look at some aspects of this developing American path and how we continue to use this freedom. The traditional halakhah, designed for a different world, has been modified by all segments of the Jewish community. In this country it never became the legal system governing the entire Jewish community with accompanying enforcing powers. Judaism became pluralistic and voluntary for all Jews . These studies are concerned with these developments within the Reform and Liberal Jewish community.

The essays in this volume look at selected issues from a theological, historical or practical context. Leonard Kravitz begins with a theological analysis and discusses where this American freedom has led us. Peter Knobel leads us in a somewhat different direction as he looks at the conflict which has arisen between personal autonomy, halakhah, and mitzvah- issues which would not have been raised before the Emancipation, but which are very much with us now. My essay looks at the mechanisms of change which we have adopted and their relationship to the traditions of the past. I have illustrated this through the Reform movement's efforts to elevate the status of women, beginning with the Jewish emancipation