What Orthodox Jews Believe
Orthodox Judaism, one of the three main branches of Judaism, is a traditional and conservative movement that adheres strictly to the teachings of the Torah and rabbinic law. Orthodox Jews believe in the absolute authority of Jewish law, which they interpret as being divinely inspired and applicable to all aspects of their lives. This article will explore the core beliefs and practices that define Orthodox Judaism.
Divine Revelation and the Torah
At the heart of Orthodox Judaism is the belief in divine revelation. Orthodox Jews believe that the Torah, the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, was given to Moses by God at Mount Sinai. They consider the Torah to be the ultimate source of Jewish law and the foundation of their faith. The Torah is divided into the Written Law (the Five Books of Moses) and the Oral Law, which is a body of rabbinic teachings that interprets and expands upon the Written Law.
Halacha: The Law of God
Orthodox Jews adhere to Halacha, the comprehensive system of Jewish law that encompasses the Written and Oral Law. Halacha governs every aspect of life, from daily prayers and dietary laws to marriage, family, and business practices. Orthodox Jews believe that Halacha is a divine commandment and that it is their duty to follow it meticulously.
Modesty and Family Values
Modesty is a central tenet of Orthodox Judaism. Orthodox Jews believe that modesty is a reflection of their respect for God and for the sanctity of their bodies. Both men and women are expected to dress modestly, with men typically wearing long pants and a shirt with sleeves, and women often covering their hair and wearing long dresses. Family values are also highly regarded in Orthodox Judaism, with a strong emphasis on marriage, children, and the upbringing of a Jewish family.
Shabbat and Jewish Holidays
Orthodox Jews observe Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest, from sunset on Friday to sunset on Saturday. They believe that Shabbat is a commandment given by God and is meant to be a time of spiritual and physical rest. Shabbat is marked by the recitation of prayers, the lighting of candles, and the consumption of festive meals. In addition to Shabbat, Orthodox Jews observe the Jewish holidays, including Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Hanukkah, and Passover, which are all celebrated with specific rituals and traditions.
Community and Education
Orthodox Judaism places a strong emphasis on community and education. Orthodox Jews believe that the study of Torah is a lifelong pursuit and that knowledge of Jewish law and tradition is essential for maintaining a strong Jewish identity. They often belong to tight-knit communities where they support one another in their religious and communal endeavors. Education is highly valued, and many Orthodox Jews pursue advanced degrees in Jewish studies, law, and other fields.
Conclusion
What Orthodox Jews believe is a multifaceted and deeply rooted faith that revolves around the divine inspiration of Jewish law, the sanctity of family and community, and the pursuit of spiritual and intellectual growth. By adhering to the teachings of the Torah and rabbinic law, Orthodox Jews strive to live a life that is in harmony with God’s will and the principles of their faith.
