Judaism: Variants

Question 1

What is Orthodox Judaism?

Answer 1

• most traditional expression of modern Judaism
• torah as direct word of god
• believe that torah remain unchanged since handed from god to moses
• torah as authoritative

Question 2

What are the unique features of Orthodox Judaism?

Answer 2

• Strict adherence to the mitzvot (seen direct word of God)
• Application of strict dietary rules, ritual observances to everyday life - ethical teachings prescribed by torah and halaka
• Separation of men and women during temple services.
• Temple services are held in Hebrew.

Question 3

What is Conservative Judaism?

Answer 3

• created as response to early reform/progressive Judaism
• accepts need to change overtime, adapting to contemporary culture regarding to sacred texts
• oral law is imporant + accepts binding nature of the Halakha (ritual law)

Question 4

What are the unique features of Conservative Judaism?

Answer 4

• Prayers = english, most services = Hebrew
• men + women sit together in worship
• Organs used in services

Question 5

What is Progressive Judaism?

Answer 5

• contemporary focus - attempts to modernise judaism to make it compatible with current society
• most liberal expression
• reject concept of torah as immediate word of god but divinely inspired word of god, written by humans
• miztvot: handed down from god as part of covenant
• concentrate on ethical meanings from law instead of traditional rituals, commandments, practices

Question 6

What are the unique features of Progressive Judaism?

Answer 6

• services = local vernacular not hebrew.
• men and women sit together during worship.
• adapting the Jewish prayerbook to reflect modern life
• women can read the Torah at service.