Exchange with M. Jaffe about Archaeology and Divine Revelation (1969)

1. M. Jaffe to R. Lamm (March 26, 1969)

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Exchange with Osher Baddiel about Extraterrestrial Life and Reconciling Man's Capacity for Creation with the Principles of Faith (1969)

Dear Rabbi Lamm, 16.6.16: Some time ago I was shown an article of yours in “Tradition” (vol. 7 no. 4 – vol. 8 no. 1; Winter ’65 – Spring ’66) entitled “The Religious Implications of Extraterrestrial Life” and was, if I may say so, greatly impressed by the clear set-out, the learned understanding of the matter, but above all by the fearless and yet careful method of discussing topics into which, because of lack of knowledge or interest, most of us are sometimes loathe, or indeed afraid, to look. However, I wonder if you would be kind enough to explain to me a point which you raise which I find a little difficult to reconcile with what I have been taught.

Faith Torah & Science

Exchange with Robert Crenshaw about Physics, God, and Creationism (1966)

Dear Rabbi Lamm: Enclosed find a copy of a letter I have written to Anglican Bishop James A. Pike. Indication of Bishop Pike's reply is contained in the note of introduction before the letter. I ask that you give serious thought to the conception outlined herein. Won't you give me your opinion? I sent this to Yeshiva University, Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary. In reply, Rabbi Emanuel Rackman suggested that I send a copy on to you. He indicated that you have been dealing with some of the problems involved in the enclosed. I consider myself a Christian, but notice that the theory herewith thrown in process of thought remarkably resembles the Jewish ideas of God. The origin of the universe, suggested in the so-called "Big Bang" cosmogonical theory. As you may know, that it was originally advanced scientifically to explain the high rate of recession of the nebulae, or galaxies, the fragments forming the galaxies, the sun, the earth. Also involved is the concept of curved space, a concept developed from Einstein's theory of relativity. As it is discussed in Scientific American offices at 250 West 55th Street, New York City, New York, I would suggest you make available to yourself information used in connection with the theory of science. Or your local library might keep back copies. I might say that other important churchmen have expressed real interest in the theology of the letter. I have recently sent copies to about 125 Protestant ministers and leaders, and also to several seminaries of Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Judaism. Sincerely, Robert E. Crenshaw.

Faith Torah & Science