“Between Heaven and Earth?” Case Studies of The Tension Between Halakhah and Morality
We will examine case studies that highlight the dilemmas, tensions and resolutions regarding conflict between halakhah and human ethical sensitivities. We will explore classical and modern rabbinic sources regarding the general issues of halakhah and ethics, followed by study of issues such as the killing of Amalekite minors or the status of minors of the condemned city (Ir Hanidachat), the status of the mamzer, priorities in health care, the burial of Jews who commit suicide, and other sensitive topics.