Open Orthodoxy is a stream of Orthodoxy that combines strict adherence to Jewish law with openness and flexibility on specific contemporary issues. The movement supports women’s inclusion in the Orthodox tradition, interaction with members of different faiths, interaction with members of other denominations of the Jewish faith, and an openness to creative and non-traditional interpretations of Jewish texts.

The Open Orthodox Haggadah touches on a number of the day’s hot-button issues in the Orthodox community. Subjects such as Kol Ishah (may a woman sing in front of men), the proper way for a woman to immerse in the mikvah when she is converting, and innovative readings of the Exodus story.

The Haggadah includes guest voices from prominent and original thinkers. Rabbi Asher Lopatin, President of Yeshivat Chovevei Torah, analyzes the passage, Pour out Thy wrath upon the nations. Michel Martin of NPR (National Public Radio, USA) shares her perspective on purchasing the chametz from the Jewish community every year.

Ruth Balinsky Friedman offers a call to include the voices of couples dealing with fertility challenges in our Seder narrative. And Rabbi Avi Weiss, the originator of the term Open Orthodoxy, offers an introduction to the principles of Open Orthodoxy and an essay on why Yitzchak is described in the Torah in a linguistic style that is similar to the way a person with Down Syndrome is described.

• Hardcover
• 160 pages

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