Orthodox Synagogues in America - Essay Example

Oneness of God is the most important principle of Judaism. They believe that God loves his people but also, gives heavy punishment to those who deviate from his path. Another very essential belief is of repentance. Unlike Christians, Jews believe that the "Messiah" was yet to be born and most awaited by them. They believe that only the advent of the "Messiah" would save the people from sins.Judaism has three main sects Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Judaism. Voni (2007) says that "The Orthodox believes that there are 613 laws that were given to Moses from God the Father and follow those laws.

" As the name indicates, they follow the strictest rules and are the most conservative form of Judaism. They believe and thrive to observe their religion in its original form and get inspired by each word written in their sacred texts. This is the oldest, most conservative, and most diverse form of Judaism. Modern Orthodox, Chasidim, and Ultra-Orthodox share a basic belief in the derivation of Jewish law, even as they hold very different outlooks on life. They attempt to follow the original form of Judaism as they view it to be.

They look upon every word in their sacred texts as being divinely inspired.Reform Judaism movement started in the 1970s in Germany and most of its followers were North American Jews. They did follow all the ethical laws of the religion but what differentiates it from other sects is the rule that it is a personal decision to ignore the dietary and other rules and are allowed to interpret the scriptures to their own understanding. They are considered liberal and believe in gender equality. They follow the modern ways of worship, which is sitting of men and women together in the synagogue.

On the contrary, the Orthodox arranges a segregated worship session.Another sect is known as conservatives. They came into the picture during the mid-nineteenth century as a reaction against the Reform movement. They also abide by the 613 laws followed by the Orthodox but the use of modern technology, for example, cell phones and electricity is allowed on the Sabbath day.Robinson (1995) writes about a survey conducted in 2001 for the 2002 edition of the American Jewish Year Book, which indicates that "Orthodox synagogues represent 40% of all U.S. synagogues.

Reform Judaism has 26 percent of all synagogues; Conservatives have 23 percent."In this scenario, there are two schools of thought. One sect believes that there is no difference between ancient and modern Judaism because the laws are the same. All the sects are derived from one religion and religious practices are similar but just due to the trend of liberalism, more sects are seen in the scenario. On the other hand, conservatives do not identify with liberal Jews to become part of their community.

A similar problem is seen with other world's great religions as well.