The controversy surrounding machine-made Matzot. Halakhic, social, and economic repercussions

Machine matzot appeared in Europe by the end of the fourth decade of the eighteenth century (1838). About twenty years later a controversy erupted regarding their kashruth. Two distinct phases of the debate took place, a primary phase (1859—60) and a secondary one (1899—1900). Predominant rabbinic f...

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Bibliographic Details
Authors: Hildesheimer, Meir 1940- (Author) ; Liebermann, Yehoshua (Author)
Format: Print Article
Language:English
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Published: College 2004
In: Hebrew Union College annual / Jewish Institute of Religion
Year: 2004, Volume: 75, Pages: 193-262
Standardized Subjects / Keyword chains:B Judaism / Modern age
IxTheo Classification:BH Judaism
TJ Modern history
Further subjects:B Judaism
B Halacha
B Purity
B Bread
Parallel Edition:Electronic
Description
Summary:Machine matzot appeared in Europe by the end of the fourth decade of the eighteenth century (1838). About twenty years later a controversy erupted regarding their kashruth. Two distinct phases of the debate took place, a primary phase (1859—60) and a secondary one (1899—1900). Predominant rabbinic figures, living mostly in Eastern Europe, voiced sharp criticism of the innovative production process. Their position was based on halakhic as well as social and economic arguments. Shortly thereafter, a front of equally influential supporters, living mostly in Western Europe, started to vigorously express an opposing view. The present study examines the history of the debate, which effectively continues to the present day, and its halakhic, social and economic implications. It draws on a database including historical observations, halakhic sources, contemporary press, documentary literature, social attitudes and economic statistics. The various sources are treated with a combined historic, social and economic approach. The interdisciplinary analysis facilitates presentation of a full picture of the debate, and shows how social and economic forces interact with the setting of halakhah.
ISSN:0360-9049
Contains:In: Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, Hebrew Union College annual / Jewish Institute of Religion