Beliefs and practices have long been a source of separation between the Reform and Orthodox Jews, with Reform Judaism widely believed to be a more progressive movement. But despite their differences, there are many similarities between Reform and Orthodox Judaism. From spiritual foundations to food laws and festivals, both traditions share some common ground upon which they build their own beliefs and practices.
Theological Doctrines
Both Orthodox and Reform Judaism are rooted in the same broad beliefs, such as the existence of Yahweh (God) and a clear recognition of the Torah as the supreme source of Jewish law. Both traditions accept the teachings of the oral and written law, and acknowledge the jurisprudence of the sages as the most valid source of Jewish wisdom and knowledge. Moreover, Orthodox and Reform Jews alike believe in the existence of the soul, divine justice, and the eventual coming of the Messiah and restoration of the Temple.
The doctrines of Orthodox and Reform Judaism also share a large number of ethical principles. These include a commitment to the sanctity of human life, respect for parents, living a life of charity, cooperation and civil responsibility, and love for one’s fellow man. Furthermore, both traditions emphasize the importance of education and self-improvement, although they may differ in their approach to these ideals.
The teachings of Orthodox and Reform Judaism also overlap in the area of mitzvot, or commands. These include praying regularly, fasting during the major fast days, honoring Shabbat, studying holy books, observing the dietary laws, giving charity, and fulfilling the various other commandments laid out in the Torah.
Food Laws
Reform and Orthodox Jews share a set of food laws known as Kashrut that are used to determine what food items are permitted to be eaten, including restrictions on the consumption of blood, pork, and certain other animals. Both traditions are also aware of the restrictions on the combination of meat and dairy products, as well as the various special blessings that are to be recited before and after consuming food.
While the exact manner in which the food laws are observed may differ between the two, the core principles remain the same. For instance, the Reform movement may be more likely to accept the use of unkosher kitchenware and ingredients, while the Orthodox may be more likely to strictly adhere to the traditional regulations.
Festivals and Practices
In the area of festivals and practices, Orthodox and Reform Jews share several core beliefs and ideas. Both believe in the seven annual festivals – Pesach, Shavuot, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Shmini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah – and tend to observe them in similar ways. These include fasting, reciting special prayers, lighting candles and reciting Kiddush, and exchanging gifts with family and friends.
Furthermore, both observe the same rituals on the Sabbath, such as separating a portion of the Sabbath meals (known as challah), lighting special candles, and abstaining from physical labor. And while Reform Jews may follow the practice of driving to their local synagogue on the Sabbath, rather than walking, both Reform and Orthodox Jews view the observance of the Sabbath as a time of spiritual renewal and connection to God.
Decision Making
When it comes to decision-making, Reform and Orthodox Jews differ in the way they approach the law. The Orthodox tend to rely heavily on rabbinical authority and follow the rulings of the Torah and other ancient writings whenever possible. In contrast, Reform Judaism generally takes a more liberal stance on the interpretation and application of Jewish law and looks to the current situation and challenges of the day to make decisions and form religious convictions.
While the beliefs and practices between Reform and Orthodox Judaism can vary greatly, they are still united by a common faith and history. Both strive to promote and maintain the moral, spiritual, and intellectual integrity of the Jewish people, and to protect and preserve the traditional values, teachings, and culture of the Jewish faith.
Judaism in the Modern Era
As modern culture and technology continues to evolve, Orthodox and Reform Jews are confronting new challenges and questions regarding the future of Judaism and its place in the world. Both groups must continue to grapple with questions of social justice, interfaith dialogue, the role of women in the faith, and a host of other contemporary issues. Despite their differences, both traditions are looking ahead to the future with a renewed sense of enthusiasm, motivated by the same core values, beliefs, and principles of faith that have long united Jewish people throughout the centuries.
Impact of the Diaspora
The Jewish diaspora has had a powerful influence on Jewish identities and the development of Orthodox and Reform Judaism. As Jews have migrated across the globe, they have found themselves confronted with a wide range of different cultures, beliefs, and customs. This has often led to a blending of traditional values, beliefs, and practices, creating a unique and diverse religious identity. This diversity has been felt by both Reform and Orthodox Jews, who have responded in different ways to the challenges and opportunities that arise from the encounter with other cultures.
These differences have resulted in a great deal of debate, leading some to suggest that Reform and Orthodox Judaism are completely different, while others believe there are still significant similarities which provide the basis for common ground. No matter the outlook, however, it is clear that the Jewish diaspora has had a dramatic impact, both on the development of Reform and Orthodox Judaism, and on the way in which Jews interact with the wider world.
God in Reform and Orthodox Judaism
The concept of God, often referred to as monotheism, has long been central to both Reform and Orthodox Judaism, and is usually seen as the cornerstone of any Jewish faith. While the exact interpretations of God may vary between the two traditions, there are some core beliefs which remain the same. These include a belief in an all-powerful and all-knowing God, who is both omniscient and omnipresent; a belief in redemption, both individually and collectively; and a belief in the power of prayer and devotion to the divine.
At the same time, the particular interpretations of these beliefs may vary, depending on the perspective of the individual. Reform Jews may emphasize the social and ethical aspects of Judaism, while Orthodox Jews may focus more on the spiritual and ritualistic elements. In the end, though, both Orthodox and Reform Jews recognize the divine power of God and strive to live their lives in accordance with the Jewish faith.
Judaism in the Modern Culture
Today, Judaism has a wide array of different interpretations and practices, due in large part to the influence of modernization on traditional values and beliefs. While Reform and Orthodox Judaism agree on many fundamental tenets and practices, they differ in their interpretation and application of certain aspects of the faith.
For example, while Reform Jews may be more likely to accept the use of modern technology in the practice of Judaism, such as computerized databases for tracking donations and other contributions, the Orthodox may be more likely to limit the use of technology to those deemed to be necessary and limited in usage. Additionally, Reform Judaism is often more open to other non-Jewish beliefs and practices, while Orthodox Judaism tends to be more conservative in its views.
In spite of the differences between Reform and Orthodox Judaism, however, both traditions provide an important source of connection and continuity for the Jewish people in the contemporary world. Through their shared experience and values, both traditions offer a sense of belonging, hope, and strength to Jews from all walks of life.
