Conservative Judaism

A middle-path Jewish denomination that views Judaism as a historically evolving tradition while maintaining commitment to halakha (Jewish law) and traditional practice. Conservative Judaism represents approximately 18% of American Jews and has communities worldwide, known as Masorti outside North America.

Core Beliefs

Torah From Heaven

Conservative Judaism affirms the divine origin of Torah but allows for human elements in its composition and transmission. Interpretations range from traditional revelation to inspired human authorship reflecting divine encounter.

Halakha and Historical Development

Jewish law is binding but has developed historically and can continue to evolve through rabbinic interpretation. The Committee on Jewish Law and Standards provides authoritative guidance, often allowing multiple valid positions.

Positive-Historical Judaism

Founded on the “positive-historical” approach: positively affirming Jewish tradition while acknowledging its historical development. Change must emerge from within the halakhic system, not by abandoning it.

Klal Yisrael

Emphasis on the unity of the Jewish people across denominational lines. Conservative Judaism seeks to preserve tradition while adapting to modern circumstances.

Historical Development

• 1845-1854 - Zacharias Frankel develops positive-historical approach in Germany
• 1886 - Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) founded in New York
• 1913 - United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism formed
• 1950 - Committee on Jewish Law and Standards established
• 1950s-1960s - Driving to synagogue on Sabbath permitted under certain conditions
• 1983 - Ordination of women as rabbis begins at JTS
• 2006 - Gay and lesbian ordination approved
• Modern era - Declining membership; rebranding efforts

Core Positions

Egalitarianism

Most Conservative synagogues have adopted egalitarian practice: women count in minyan (prayer quorum), read from Torah, lead services, and serve as rabbis and cantors. Traditional non-egalitarian practice remains a minority option.

Traditional Liturgy with Modifications

Prayers largely follow traditional Hebrew liturgy but may include vernacular readings and modifications reflecting Conservative theology (e.g., some adjust resurrection language).

Sabbath Observance

Conservative Jews observe Shabbat with traditional restrictions but with some leniencies, such as permitting driving to synagogue when necessary for community participation.

Kashrut

Dietary laws are observed, though standards may be less stringent than Orthodox. Many Conservative Jews keep kosher at home but are more flexible outside.

Practices

Worship

Services follow traditional structure with Hebrew prayers, Torah reading, and sermon. Mixed-gender seating is standard. Use of musical instruments varies by congregation.

Life Cycle

Conservative Judaism maintains traditional lifecycle observances: brit milah (circumcision), bar/bat mitzvah, wedding, mourning practices, with adaptations for egalitarianism.

Conversion

Conservative conversions require study, acceptance of commandments, circumcision (men), and ritual immersion. Conservative converts are not universally recognized by Orthodox authorities.

Education

Strong emphasis on Jewish education, Hebrew literacy, and Torah study for all ages. Day schools, supplementary schools, and camps transmit Jewish knowledge and values.

Institutions

• Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) - Flagship seminary in New York
• Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies - Los Angeles
• Schechter Institutes - Jerusalem; training for Masorti movement
• United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism - Synagogue organization

Geographic Distribution

Conservative Judaism is strongest in the United States (especially Northeast and California), with Masorti communities in Canada, Latin America, Israel, and Europe. Membership has declined significantly since peak in mid-20th century.

Ideological Range

Conservative Judaism encompasses a spectrum from right-wing (closer to Orthodox practice) to left-wing (closer to Reform). This pluralism is both a strength (inclusivity) and challenge (lack of clear boundaries).

Relation to Other Jewish Movements

Conservative Judaism positions itself between Orthodox and Reform. It critiques Orthodoxy’s resistance to change while rejecting Reform’s early radical breaks with tradition. Orthodox Judaism generally doesn’t recognize Conservative rabbis, conversions, or marriages. Relations with Reform are cooperative, with differences over halakhic commitment and Israel policy. Some see Reconstructionist Judaism as an offshoot that moved further left.