Download Branches of Judaism

Branches of Judaism – Teacher Reference
Topic
When was it ‘formed’?

Reform
Early 18th Century, Germany

1883 in the US
Orthodox
 Oldest and largest branch world wide,
historically the ‘original branch’
Place of Worship

Temple

Synagogue

Synagogue, schul
How do they view their
place in society?
 Active part of communities, assimilates
 Don’t isolate themselves from larger
community

Followers are encouraged to be a part
of their communities but not to be
overcome by them

Believe Jews will lose their spiritual
heritage if they adapt to modernity
Directly opposes the Reform branch


Services can be conducted in either
English (or language of the community)
or in Hebrew
Sabbath services are on Saturdays



Sabbath services?

In English (or language of the
community)
Sabbath services are on Saturdays
Position on the Laws



Worship practices of
men and women
Conservative
Willing to adapt Jewish laws to the
needs of historical context




Willing to adapt Jewish laws to contemporary life,

but traditions must not be compromised
Followers are encouraged to read the

Torah and Talmud and follow the
teachings as they apply to their lives

Men and women worship on separate
sides of the synagogue (depending on congregation)

Men and women worship together, side
by side in the Temple
Female rabbis?
Usually in Hebrew
Sabbath services are on Saturdays
On the Sabbath they are required to do
nothing but worship God, this is a day of
complete dedication to God
The Torah is their anchor, to be followed to
the letter of the Law
For example, they keep strict kosher kitchens
(separate fridges/ dishes for dairy and meat
products)
The word of the Rabbi is Law
Men and women worship on separate sides of
the synagogues, in some places they have a
curtain to separate them , in others, the
women and children will sit in a separate
balcony to worship
 Some communities have female rabbis, some
do not

No female rabbis

Female rabbis are welcome
Specific Sabbath
observances?

No, varies

No, varies

Strictly observed
Dietary laws
Specific form of dress


No (some are partially kosher)
modern


Mostly kosher
modern


Fully kosher
modest, sometimes distinctive (Hasidism)