Norman Lamm Quotes

A collection of quotes by Norman Lamm.

Norman Lamm (1927-2020) was an American Orthodox rabbi, theologian, and educator, widely respected for his leadership and contributions to the Jewish community. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Lamm became a prominent figure within Modern Orthodoxy and served as the third president of Yeshiva University (YU) from 1976 to 2003.

Lamm graduated from Yeshiva College and then went on to earn semicha (rabbinical ordination) from YU's affiliated Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary. He also pursued advanced studies in Jewish philosophy at the Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies, where he received his Ph.D. under the guidance of renowned scholar Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik.

During his presidency at Yeshiva University, Lamm initiated numerous reforms and oversaw significant growth in both the undergraduate and graduate programs. He emphasized the integration of Torah and secular knowledge, striving to provide students with a comprehensive education that combined religious studies with a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences.

Lamm's impact extended beyond Yeshiva University; he held leadership positions in various Jewish organizations and institutions. He wrote extensively, publishing numerous articles and several books that covered a wide range of topics including Jewish philosophy, ethics, and theology.

Recognized as a proponent of thoughtful engagement with the modern world, Lamm advocated for a compassionate and intellectually rigorous Orthodoxy. Throughout his lifetime, he inspired generations of students and scholars, leaving behind a lasting legacy within the Jewish community. Norman Lamm passed away on May 31, 2020, leaving behind a significant impact on Jewish education and scholarship.

My mother, whose family was heavily rabbinic, said she wante

My mother, whose family was heavily rabbinic, said she wanted me to continue the family tradition in the rabbinate. My father said he wanted me to be a scholar of the Talmud, but he wanted me to make my living in science.

Norman Lamm

Science Family Tradition

However, the word madda in modern Hebrew specifically means

However, the word madda in modern Hebrew specifically means science.

Norman Lamm

Science

I showed that privacy was an implicit right in Jewish law, p

I showed that privacy was an implicit right in Jewish law, probably going back to the second or third century, when it was elaborated on in a legal way.

Norman Lamm

Legal

Modern Orthodoxy has a highly positive attitude toward the S

Modern Orthodoxy has a highly positive attitude toward the State of Israel. Our Ultra-Orthodox brethren recognize only the Holy Land, but not the state.

Norman Lamm

Attitude