Mordecai M. Kaplan

Mordecai M. Kaplan was a prominent Jewish theologian and leader in the 20th century who aimed to modernize Judaism. He emphasized that Judaism is a living, evolving culture rooted in community, ethics, and shared history, rather than solely religious rituals or beliefs. Kaplan believed Judaism should adapt to contemporary life, encouraging active participation and social justice. His ideas helped shape Reform Judaism, focusing on cultural identity and moral values as central to Jewish life, making religion relevant and meaningful in a modern context.