Exchange with R. Korn about Morality and the Command to Destroy Amalek (2004)

1. R. Korn to R. Lamm (March 3, 2004)

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Exchange with Arthur Sapper about the Noahide Laws and Morality (2001)

Dear Dr. Lamm: I have read your recent article, “Holocaust Compensation from the Viewpoint of Jewish Law and Morality.” The article, while forceful, left me puzzled, and I respectfully seek your explanation or clarification of a point. Your article is principally built on the mitzvah in Lev. 19:16, “You shall not stand by idly while the blood of your brother is being spilled.” From this, and also Rambam and the Talmud, you extract the point that “\[n]ations as well as individuals are enjoined to defend the defenseless....” You apply other halakhic principles, such as tzorkhei rabbim.My question is this: Which, if any, of the laws or principles relied upon in your article apply to non-Jews? I find it hard to believe that all of them do. I don’t recall anything in the seven mitzvahs of the bnei Noach that encompasses not standing by the blood of one’s brother or ‘tzorkhei rabbim.’If it is the whole point of the Jewish people that we are kadosh, separate and apart from other nations, and if that kedushah is founded on our being bound by many more mitzvot than the nations of the world, then I take it that it is contrary to the very idea of the Jewish people to impose on other nations laws that apply only to klal Yisrael.I look forward to your answer.Respectfully,Arthur G. Sapper

General Jewish Thought Talmudic Analysis Jewish Law & Secular Law

Exchange with R. Cardozo about Article on Amalek and the Development of Morality (2004)

Dear NLC: Unfortunately the man in Miami did not respond, but Ode Lo Avdah Tikvatenu. I’ll try somebody else. Meanwhile, attached is the essay – or better, draft of the essay – prepared for the Orthodox Forum. Any comments by you will be appreciated by – NL

General Jewish Thought

Exchange with R. Dratch about the Nature of Sevara (2008)

Following is my revision of Mark’s remarks. Pls give me as soon as I return. Based on our discussion on Shabbat. It’s also posted on Google Documents. Now close the computer and get some sun!!!!!

General Jewish Thought Talmudic Analysis