Lesson 3. Flashcards
Define the origins of Orthodox Judaism.
After Jews were official expelled by medieval anti-Semitism in 1290, they had formed their own separate community, and were reluctant to leave it.
Define the Origins of Reform Judaism.
For centuries Jews were forcibly separated from wider society by discriminatory legislation, leading for them to become separate from the evolving world. This later became a pinnacle of panic in the nineteenth century, where they were suddenly launched into society. This led to a group of Jews realising there must be a balance between modernity and tradition. This has caused the birth of Reform Judaism.
How do Reform Jews pray?
In Reform: men and women pray together. Prayers spoken in the vernacular. Musical instruments are played. Synagogues have a weekly service on Shabbat, instead of having services daily.
Differences between Reform and Orthodox Jews.
In Reform Judaism, Shabbat may begin at any time on Friday evening. There is no specific time designated, whereas in Orthodox Judaism, Shabbat must begin at the sunset on Friday evening.
Furthermore, Shabbat is a day of rest from work. In Orthodox Judaism, many focus only on the study of the Torah and will not do any kind of work on Shabbat, which is what they deem proper. In Reform Judaism ‘work’ alludes specifically to the work involved with one’s occupation, or any work for a gain of money.
How do Orthodox Jews pray?
In Orthodox: men and women do not pray together. Prayers spoken in Hebrew. Musical instruments are not played. Services are hosted daily in the synagogue, and the siddur is not modified.
