Boron Elgar wrote:
> Which Muslim sect's clerics would you consult, as that could make
> quite a difference in reply. And of course, withouth a central
> religious authority, Imam's are judges unto themselves and you might
> get 7 different answers from inquiring of 7 of them. All ulama have
> the right to issue judgements, and though not legally binding, there
> are those who shop around for an interpretation that appeals to them.

You make a good point, but where do you start? From people who have an
intimate knowledge of their religion.

> When you look for perspective on Jewish law, do you seek
> interpretations of the various Chasid sects, or perhaps Orthodox,
> Conservative, or Reform rabbinates? Do you feel that one is superior
> to another for some reason?

All the orthodox sects have the same basis. Their laws come from the same
source and they in general respect the recognised Gedolim. They will recognise
the authority of the Torah as received via the chain of tradition through to
the Rishonim and Achronim. The thread was coming from the perspective of
orthodox Judaism and anything that isn't that doesn't enter the equation - its
like comparing apples to a rake.

Off topic but since you mention it. Conservative "Judaism" and Reform
"Judaism" are religions that contain many Jews but calling themselves
"Judaism" does not make it so. Seems like everyone today adds an adjective to
the word Judaism and it magically becomes authentic because it is the American
way to say 'who are we to judge these things' therefore they are all equal
etc. etc. I'm waiting for Budhist Judaism to be invented.

> Why do you assume that no one who has attained professorial rank is
> capable of answering religious doctrine questions?

When I have a medical problem I don't necessarily go to the doctor but if I
want some serious answers in that area I won't mess about asking the opinion
of people not immersed in the topic. Same goes for legal advice and the same
goes for religious advice. A person certainly doesn't need the title "Rabbi"
to qualify to answer questions on Judaism, but if you want a more
authoritative and reliable source of information you go to someone whose
profession covers that area of knowledge and who is dedicated to understanding
that area of knowledge.

regards,
Ben