Rabbi David Hartman dies at 81

Jerusalem, Feb 10 (AP) Rabbi David Hartman, one of the world's leading Jewish philosophers and a promoter of diversity among Jewish theological trends, has died. He was 81. The Shalom Hartman Institute, founded by the rabbi more than 30 years ago, said Hartman died today after a long illness. The Brooklyn-born Hartman held rabbinical posts in the US and Canada before immigrating to Israel in 1971. He was known for his efforts to promote understanding between Jews of various affiliations both inside and outside Israel. He was widely published and won numerous prizes, including the 1977 National Jewish Book Award. (AP) RBL 02102028 NNNN