Debate continues within Orthodox communities regarding the recognition of women as rabbis, following a piece by Rabbi Jonathan Guttentag in the Jewish Chronicle. He argues that mainstream Orthodox bodies do not accept women as rabbis because they lack the historical chain of semichah, a traditional form of rabbinic authority tracing back to Moses. This view, however, has been challenged by Rabbi Nomi Kaltmann, one of Australia’s first ordained Orthodox female rabbis.
Rabbi Kaltmann contends that the claim of an unbroken chain of authority is historically flawed. She emphasizes that the original form of semichah, which required a direct connection to recognized courts in the Land of Israel, has not been in practice for over a millennium. Today, semichah signifies a community’s acknowledgment of an individual’s mastery of Jewish law and their ability to lead. This shift in understanding makes the argument that only men can serve as rabbis increasingly untenable, as current practices do not align with historical precedents.
Kaltmann, who graduated from Yeshivat Maharat in 2023, engages daily in pastoral care, teaching, and community leadership. She does not advocate for changes to synagogue policies but rather seeks to fulfill her responsibilities in a manner that is recognized by her community. In public and interfaith settings, she notes that titles carry significant weight, allowing her voice to be heard as a legitimate authority rather than sidelined.
This conversation about women in leadership roles within Orthodox Judaism reflects broader tensions surrounding tradition and modernity. Kaltmann acknowledges that not all communities may wish to employ women as rabbis, which is their prerogative. However, she argues against framing the issue as a clear-cut halachic (Jewish legal) matter, as the reality is more complex and varied.
Throughout Jewish history, roles and titles have evolved. Kaltmann points out that the modern conception of a rabbi is a product of historical development, not a fixed category rooted in biblical times. The invocation of tradition as immutable often overlooks the nuanced discussions that have shaped Jewish law and communal practice over time.
“Protecting tradition does not require denying that legitimate debate exists,” Kaltmann states, emphasizing the importance of engaging with differing perspectives. She highlights that communities must have the confidence to navigate these discussions without dismissing opposing views as illegitimate.
As Jewish communities navigate these complex issues, the dialogue about women’s roles in spiritual leadership continues to unfold. The recognition of women as rabbis within some Orthodox contexts signifies a significant shift, reflecting a broader movement toward inclusivity and adaptability in contemporary Jewish life.
Rabbanit Kaltmann’s work, particularly as the founder and inaugural president of JOFA Australia, exemplifies this evolving landscape. By engaging in meaningful dialogue and providing pastoral care, she and her colleagues challenge traditional boundaries while contributing to a vibrant and diverse Jewish community.