Orthodox Judaism

The traditionalist branch of Judaism, maintaining that the Torah—both Written and Oral—was divinely revealed to Moses and that halakha (Jewish law) is binding and authoritative. Orthodox Judaism comprises approximately 10% of world Jewry but represents a significant portion in Israel and maintains vibrant communities worldwide.

Core Beliefs

Divine Revelation of Torah

Orthodox Jews affirm that the Written Torah (Five Books of Moses) was dictated by God to Moses at Sinai, and the Oral Torah (later codified in Talmud) was simultaneously transmitted. Both are divine and authoritative.

Binding Halakha

Jewish law (halakha) as developed through rabbinic tradition is obligatory. Orthodox Jews observe mitzvot (commandments) regarding Sabbath, kashrut (dietary laws), prayer, festivals, family purity, and all aspects of life.

Unchanging Principles

While application may vary, the fundamental principles of Torah and halakha are eternal and cannot be altered or abandoned. Reform is viewed as deviation from authentic Judaism.

Messianic Hope

Orthodox Jews maintain traditional belief in a personal Messiah who will restore Israel, rebuild the Temple, and usher in the messianic age—rejecting reinterpretations of this hope.

Historical Development

• 19th century - Emergence as distinct movement in response to Reform Judaism
• 1851 - Term “Orthodox” adopted (originally used by opponents)
• Late 19th century - Split between Modern Orthodox (engagement with modernity) and Haredi (separation from secular culture)
• 20th century - Holocaust decimates European Orthodox communities; rebuilding in Israel and America
• Modern era - Growth through high birthrates; significant influence in Israeli politics

Major Streams

Modern Orthodox

Engages with secular education, culture, and society while maintaining halakhic observance. Motto: “Torah U’Madda” (Torah and secular knowledge). Supports religious Zionism and participation in Israeli state.

Haredi (Ultra-Orthodox)

Emphasizes separation from secular culture, intensive Torah study, and strict observance. Includes:

• Lithuanian/Yeshivish - Rationalist, focused on Talmud study
• Hasidic - Mystical, dynastic leadership under rebbes
• Sephardic Haredi - Following Sephardic legal traditions

Centrist Orthodox

Middle position between Modern Orthodox and Haredi, balancing tradition and modernity.

Practices

Sabbath Observance

Strict Sabbath (Shabbat) observance from Friday sunset to Saturday nightfall, abstaining from 39 categories of work, including electricity use, driving, and commerce.

Kashrut

Meticulous observance of dietary laws: kosher animals, proper slaughter, separation of meat and dairy, rabbinic supervision of food production.

Prayer

Three daily prayer services (morning, afternoon, evening), prayer with minyan (quorum of ten men), traditional liturgy in Hebrew.

Modesty

Emphasis on modest dress (tzniut), with married women typically covering hair and communities enforcing dress codes.

Torah Study

Intensive study of Torah, Talmud, and rabbinic texts, especially for men. Yeshivas (Torah academies) central to Orthodox life.

Gender Roles

Orthodox Judaism maintains traditional gender roles: men and women have distinct religious obligations and spheres. Women are exempt from time-bound positive commandments. Synagogue seating is separated (mechitza). Only men serve as rabbis and lead prayer in Orthodox practice.

Geographic Distribution

Significant Orthodox communities exist in Israel (Jerusalem, Bnei Brak), United States (New York, New Jersey), United Kingdom (London, Manchester), and elsewhere. Israel has the largest Orthodox population.

Relation to Other Jewish Movements

Orthodox Judaism views itself as the authentic continuation of historical Judaism. It does not recognize Reform or Conservative rabbis, conversions, or marriages as valid according to halakha. Relations range from cooperation on certain issues to complete separation, particularly among Haredi communities. Modern Orthodox engage more with non-Orthodox Jews while maintaining halakhic boundaries.