| Joe is absolutely correct that in matters of Halacha the value of semicha corresponds directly with the stature of the rabbi giving it. However, most pulpit rabbis are rarely called on to make difficult halachic decisions. Their role is primarily that of a counselor and arbitrator of religious politics within their respective communities. Accordingly many rabbinical schools that train pulpit rabbis have a curriculum that is quite different than that of the traditional Yore Yore training received in Yeshiva. While one can argue about "who" deserves the title rabbis, it is quite indisputable that different leadership positions in the Jewish community require different kinds of knowledge and preparation. And while I myself have a strong Yeshiva background and appreciate its advantages I have seen enough to know that it also has its limitations. |
|
