Frankel, Zecharias (1801–1875). The founder of Conservative Judaism
in Germany. At the time, it was called “Positive Historical Judaism.” The
original name reflects the idea that Judaism is a historical religion unfolding
over time and that historical unfolding is positive because it allows Jewish
law to maintain its relevance in each generation. Frankel accepted certain
reforms but was dedicated to the binding nature of Jewish law as a whole. He
was also opposed to the linguistic acculturation of Reform and insisted on
preserving Hebrew in the prayer services. In 1854, he was named the director of
a rabbinical seminary (Juedisch-Theologisches Seminar), which became the model
for modern seminaries that combine critical scholarship and traditional Jewish
study.
Courtesy: Professor Shai Cherry
