Reconceiving Conceptualism

Reconceiving Conceptualism

Author: Tradition Online May 26, 2026 Duration: 55:47
The recent annual convention of TRADITON’s publisher, the Rabbinical Council of America, was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the work of our journal of Orthodox Jewish Thought. Our editor Jeffrey Saks had a chance to conduct a session with Itamar Rosensweig, whose “Reconceiving Conceptualism” opens our recently released Spring 2026 issue. The essay is an argument for method in Torah study as part of the pursuit of knowledge. Rosensweig asks if and why the so-called conceptual method (a.k.a. Lomdus) is typically favored in our own learning and teaching because it’s somehow more “authentic” and “true”? Saks inquired what Rosensweig set out to do in the essay and touched on pedagogical and practical suggestions for ways to more effectively implement Lomdus and utilize its tools in our shuls and schools. This was of particular relevance to the rabbis and educators in attendance, many of whom raised questions and offered gentle pushback throughout the discussion. In fact, the essay has already generated a healthy amount of response and we hope to be publishing some of that in the near future. Watch a video of this discussion on YouTube. Rabbi Dr. Itamar Rosensweig is a Rosh Yeshiva and associate professor of philosophy at Yeshiva University, a dayyan at the Beth Din of America, and rabbi of the Merion Shtiebel. The conversation was recorded by TorahAnytime at the RCA Convention in Suffern, NY, on May 11, 2026. The post Reconceiving Conceptualism appeared first on Tradition Online.

The Tradition Podcast extends the deep, considered conversation of its long-standing journal into an audio format. Each episode draws from the rich well of Orthodox Jewish thought, but frames these ideas for a contemporary listener grappling with modern questions. You'll hear discussions that sit at the intersection of ancient texts and present-day life, where timeless philosophy meets current ethical dilemmas, historical context informs cultural shifts, and spiritual inquiry finds practical expression. This isn't about delivering simple answers, but rather exploring the nuanced arguments and diverse perspectives that have defined a living tradition for centuries. The podcast naturally delves into the same rigorous topics as the journal-Jewish law, theology, societal trends, and moral philosophy-but with the accessible, engaging flow of a spoken dialogue. It’s for anyone curious about how a vibrant intellectual and religious tradition navigates the complexities of the human experience, offering thoughtful reflection that resonates far beyond the page. Tune in for a series that honors the depth of its source material while creating a new space for auditory learning and reflection.
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