Law and Religious Authority Between Prevention and Conflict Resolution in Chaim Potok’s Novel “My Name is Asher Lev”

The article offers an analysis—within the perspective of law and literature studies—of Chaim Potok’s novel “My Name is Asher Lev”, exploring the existential and normative conflict between the individual and the community through a legal-religious lens. Starting from an examination of Halakhah and the central role of interpretative authority embodied by the Rebbe, the contribution delves into the dynamics governing the tension between personal artistic expression and obedience to the religious norms of the Hasidic community. Through the prism of ethical constructivism, the article investigates how religious normativity can be reformulated through a dialogic and rational process capable of harmonizing tradition with individual autonomy. In conclusion, the article reflects on how secularization profoundly transforms the nature of religious norms, fostering a continuous negotiation that enriches and reshapes both collective and personal identities.