This is basically for the other Jewish people on this site, but others are welcome to answer as well. Just wondering what sect of your religion you follow. Im Reform myself.

Conservative, though I have been to Reform temples.

Didn't notice too big a difference, though there is.

Ive only been exposed to Orthodox and Reform, but ive heard that Conservative is pretty close to Reform (although different in many areas). Just wondering, do they speak Hebrew or English at the synagogue you normally go to?

Both, but with more emphasis on Hebrew.

I'm actually more partial towards Reform, but the Conservative temple is the closest one to me. I'd have to drive 20 miles to go to a Reform one, which really isn't viable, considering my salary.

Sects is great! Sorry guys, had too! http://www.totse.com/bbs/smile.gif (http://www.totse.com/bbs/smile.gif)

Can you explain to me the differences between the sects of judaism?

quote:Originally posted by onasis:

Can you explain to me the differences between the sects of judaism?

Well, you have about 3 or 4 movements, commonly known as sects.

You have Chasidism(also incorrectly known as Ultra-Orthodox), you may have seen these guys. They all have the beards and the forelocks. They're pretty hardcore, and are big proponents of mysticism to get in touch with God. I believe that they're believers in reincarnation, as well.

Another movement is the Orthodox movement, of which the Chasidim are a part of. Most orthodox groups observe Jewish Law, keeping kosher and whatnot. All Orthodox believe that God gave all of the Torah(both written and oral) to Moses on the top of Mount Sinai. They belive that it is completely factual, and has not been changed over the years. They also follow the 613 mitzvot(responsibilites that Jews must follow.)

On the opposite end, you have the Reform movement. They do not believe that the Torah was written by God, they think it was compiled from a variety of sources. They don't follow the 613 mitzvot, although they do keep most of the Jewish ethics and customs.

In the middle of the two previously mentioned, you have the Conservative movement. They think that the Torah was written by God, but was passed down by humans and have a human element to it. They follow Jewish Law, but believe that it should adapt and change to meet the needs of the times, while staying true to the core values. As I mentioned, they have a higher emphasis on Hebrew than Reform Synagogues.

There is also one other movement, Reconstructionist, but I don't want to talk about it, since I don't know the details off the top of my head and don't want to google it.

But, those are your Jewish sects in a nutshell, to the best of my knowledge.

To elaborate on Reform a little bit. Most Reform Jews follow some or most of Jewish law. Its just that we look at the Torah as a basis to lead your life (as well as the Talmud) but not as unchallengable unbending laws as it were. This is ofcourse not every Reform Jews view... just mine but i know many that feel the same way. As a side note, many Conservative and Orthodox Rabbis do not recognize Reform conversions which can lead to a problem for converts looking into living in Israel under the law of return.

quote:Originally posted by Fascistsmasher:

As a side note, many Conservative and Orthodox Rabbis do not recognize Reform conversions which can lead to a problem for converts looking into living in Israel under the law of return.

Indeed, which makes it a good thing that the local temple here is Conservative.

I wouldn't mind living in Israel. I could get involved in an ecstacy ring, and come back to the USA to unload it.

I was raised Messianic but converted to Reform two years ago.

Cheers,

Lost