Deck 2

Question 1

Masorti Judaism (Conservative Judaism outside the USA)

Answer 1

Balances tradition and change, emphasizing the authority of Halacha with a willingness to adapt Jewish law in response to modern life.

Question 2

Mechitzah in Conservative Synagogues

Answer 2

The partition separating genders during prayer; varies in presence and form, reflecting diverse approaches to gender equality.

Question 3

Bat Kol

Answer 3

“Daughter of Voice”; a heavenly voice or divine echo, mentioned in rabbinic literature, symbolizing ongoing divine communication.

Question 4

Teshuvah Process

Answer 4

The process of repentance and return to God, especially emphasized during the High Holy Days, involving acknowledgment of wrongdoing, restitution, and resolution to change.

Question 5

Musaf

Answer 5

An additional service added on Shabbat, festivals, and Rosh Chodesh, reflecting the additional sacrifices offered in the Temple era.

Question 6

Keruv (Outreach)

Answer 6

Efforts within Conservative and Reform communities to welcome and integrate interfaith families, unaffiliated Jews, and converts.

Question 7

Halakhic Egalitarianism

Answer 7

The approach in some Conservative communities to achieve gender equality within the framework of Jewish law, allowing women to participate fully in religious duties.

Question 8

Patrilineal Descent

Answer 8

A Reform Judaism policy recognizing Jewish identity in children of mixed heritage if either parent is Jewish and the child is raised Jewish.

Question 9

Kashrut in Reform Judaism

Answer 9

While traditional dietary laws are maintained variably among individuals, there’s an emphasis on ethical eating and informed choice.

Question 10

Mikveh in Contemporary Practice

Answer 10

Ritual baths used traditionally for conversion and purity now also symbolize spiritual journeys or significant life transitions in both Conservative and Reform contexts.

Question 11

Hechsher Tzedek

Answer 11

A certification ensuring kosher products are also produced ethically, respecting workers’ rights and environmental standards, supported by the Conservative movement.

Question 12

Shalom Bayit

Answer 12

“Peace in the home”; emphasizes the importance of domestic harmony and is a guiding principle in family and community relations.

Question 13

Birkat Hamazon in Different Streams

Answer 13

The grace after meals, highlighting variations in text and practice between Conservative and Reform traditions.

Question 14

Sidurim and Machzorim Adaptations

Answer 14

Prayer books for daily, Sabbath, and holiday use, with adaptations in Conservative and Reform liturgies to include inclusive language and contemporary readings.

Question 15

Giyur le

Answer 15

Humra - “Conversion out of stringency”; sometimes performed for those whose Jewish status is questioned due to patrilineal descent or conversion under less stringent conditions.

Question 16

Torah Study (Limud Torah)

Answer 16

Central to all streams of Judaism, with Conservative and Reform movements offering various platforms for engagement, including online classes and study groups.

Question 17

Pesikta d’Rav Kahana

Answer 17

A collection of midrashic discourses for special Sabbaths and festival days, studied across Jewish denominations for its deep insights into Jewish ethics and law.

Question 18

Minhag America

Answer 18

The concept that American Judaism can develop its own customs and traditions, particularly within the Reform movement, to adapt to contemporary American culture.

Question 19

Eco

Answer 19

Judaism - The integration of Jewish environmental ethics into practice, with initiatives in both Conservative and Reform communities focusing on sustainability and stewardship of the Earth.

Question 20

Prayer for the Welfare of the State of Israel

Answer 20

Included in the liturgy of both Conservative and Reform synagogues, reflecting the diverse approaches to Zionism and support for Israel within these movements.