Rabbi David Hartman dies at 81 In a 2011 interview to the Yediot Ahronot daily, Hartman spoke out against some religious groups in Israel for their strict interpretation of some aspects of Jewish law. Menachem Lorberbaum, a professor at Tel Aviv University who worked closely with Hartman at the institute, said he "inspired a whole new generation of teachers in Jewish philosophy and theology." Lorberbaum said Hartman will be known for his accomplishments on religious ethics, and as "a pioneer of interfaith dialogue."