The Role Of A Florida Rabbi In The Local Jewish Community

By Ina Hunt


Since ancient times the Jewish race have enjoyed a culture that is very closely connected to the Torah, the holy book that can be compared with the Christian Bible. This becomes especially clear when one considers the fact that the early kingdoms of Israel and Judah were rules by kings, prophets and the priesthood. All of the above were required to be well versed in the teachings of the Torah. Today, a Florida rabbi, for example, must undergo the same training as the early members of the priesthood.

The word Ribbi or Rabban, other names for these religious leaders is from the Hebrew term that means My Master or Great One. From the title it is clear that these leaders are held in very high esteem and that they enjoy a great deal of respect from their communities. They are scholarly and they commonly fill important leadership positions within the Jewish community.

In order to be ordained as a Ribbi it is necessary to complete five years of study. The curriculum is dominated by studies of the Jewish law and responsa. Most Ribbis hold the qualification of Yore yore, which means He Shall Teach. Advanced studies may lead to the qualification of Yadin yadin, translating as He Shall Judge. A very small percentage of Ribbis hold the latter qualification.

Judaism consists of many different movements and there have always been differences and even disputes between the various movement. Some movements, such as the Orthodox and Conservatives will not accept the qualifications or authority of Ribbis belonging to other movements. The Reconstructive and Reform movements will accept the authority of Ribbis from other movements but they will not accept their interpretation of the Jewish law.

The various Jewish denominations also differ on who is eligible to be ordained as a Ribbi. In the Orthodox and some of the conservative movements only men are allowed to take up this title, although there have been slow progress toward the appointment of women. In most other movements women are routinely ordained and there is not even a prohibition against the ordination of gays and lesbians.

Historically the main role of the Ribbi was to interpret the law and to rule during disputes. The congregation was usually managed by laymen. In modern congregations, however, they also accept the roles of leader, pastor, preacher and counselor, much like pastors and priests in Christian churches do. Many Jewish charitable institutions and non governmental institutions are also run by Ribbis.

Conversion to Judaism is a thorny issue. The various denominations have different requirements that must be met before conversation can be confirm by a rabbinical court consisting of three Ribbis. Those wishing to convert are generally required to study Jewish law and to incorporate Jewish practices in their daily lives. The problem is that some movements will not accept converts from other movements as Jews.

Judaism is not and has never been a single religion. It consists of many different movements and some of them differ significantly. In all the various movements the role of the Rabbi remains central, however. The Ribbi is expected to teach and to interpret the law. They preside at all important ceremonies and they act as leaders of their communities.




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