Judaism And The Three Branches

10 Pages 2504 Words

Running head: JUDAISM AND THE THREE BRANCHES


Abstract

When contemplating the concept of Judaism, or what is conceived as the Jewish religion, most non-Jews are unaware of the fact that there are three branches of Judaism. The three branches are Orthodox, Reformed and Conservative. (Domnitz, 11) This study will analyze, compare and distinguish the three branches. It will also dissect their origins, beliefs and ways of practicing their religions and discover what distinguishes them.


What is Judaism? Judaism is a not just a religion but a way of culture for Jews. The two are blended together to create a religious way of life which is demonstrated through the food they eat, the way they speak (Hebrew or Yiddish), the way they pray and a deep belief in their religion. Being Jewish is not a race; there are Jews in many countries. They speak different languages and may be of any color. Anyone can become a Jew who believes in the Jewish religion, and obeys its laws and traditions according to the religious authorities (Fisher, 4). According to Jewish law, any person whose mother is Jewish is Jewish, whether or not he or she is religious. Some people consider themselves to be Jewish even if only their father is Jewish. You can also convert and become Jewish. Jews who actively follow Judaism as a religion are called practicing or observant Jews. Jews who do not, are called secular Jews (Stoppleman, 5).
Jewish history began over four thousand years ago in the Middle East (Fisher, 5). It is also considered to be the base of other religions, such as Christianity and Islam. Jewish immigration to the United States began in the mid-nineteenth century. By 1880, there were 250,000 Jews in the United States, mostly of German origin, and middle class in occupations and attitudes (Fisher, 258). There are more than 17 million Jews throughout the world, with the majority living in the U.S. and Israel. Israel is considered...