What is the Reasoning Behind Judaism’s Strictness?
The existence of many rules and regulations in the Jewish faith can be an overwhelming concept for those outside the religion. There is a long-standing debate surrounding the concept of Jewish strictness, with many asking questions such as why so much emphasis is placed on Jewish law, rituals, and traditions.
Rabbi Hershel Brook, a Jewish spiritual leader and teacher, explains that the basis of Judaism is rooted in the belief in the one God and the responsibility to pass down the teachings and values of the faith to future generations. He states that strictness is a way of strengthening the faith and preserving tradition. He further explains that “the values and rules of Judaism promote the learning, growth and evolution of Jewish communities, now and for generations to come”.
The Jewish faith is also very firmly rooted in the concept of ‘halacha’ which refers to the laws and regulations that guide Jewish living. Jewish scholars believe that the majority of these laws, also known as mitzvot, were first introduced in the Torah. Examples of such laws include the Shabbat, religious fasting on Yom Kippur, keeping kosher and offering charity to the needy.
The concept of Jewish law and tradition can also be seen as heavily embedded within the concept of the ‘Covenant Relationship’ between God and the Jewish people. During such a relationship, the “strict” laws are seen as an expression of loyalty and dependence on God. Therefore, the strictness of the laws enable the Jewish community to remain committed to the teachings and values of their faith.
It is also seen as a way of creating a separation between Jews and other faiths. The separation is intended to keep Jewish traditions pure, as any outside influence has the potential to taint them if not kept in check. Therefore, by adhering to strictness, the Jewish people are able to continue to identify with the ancient teachings of their faith.
Although there is no single explanation for the concept of Jewish strictness, it is clear that it offers a sense of cohesion and meaning within the Jewish faith. The rules and regulations of the faith offer a sense of structure and identity which can be highly valued by religious adherents.
How Jewish Strictness Has Evolved Through Time?
The concept of Jewish strictness has changed over the centuries. During the 6th and 5th centuries BCE, when the Jewish people were living in the Babylonian exile, their laws were strict, reflecting the oppressive laws of Babylonian society.
During the time of the Sanhedrin, a Jewish council established during the Roman occupation of Judea in the first century, Jewish laws still tended to be very strict and rigid. Laws ranged from religious to social and economic, in some cases forcing Jews to adhere to policies that would later be considered religiously and culturally unacceptable.
Throughout the centuries of the diaspora, some of the most stringent laws were removed from the faith, such as laws dictating the trading between Jews and non-Jews. Other changes were more technical, for example, the allowance of money-lending to non-Jews in certain cases.
In the 20th century, the Rabbis of the Conservative movement of Judaism began to add new laws and regulations to the faith. These new laws sought to adapt the faith to a rapidly changing modern world while still maintaining the core values and beliefs of the faith. Such changes encouraged the Jewish community to adopt their religious laws and customs to better suit their lifestyle.
Today, many of the laws and regulations within the Jewish faith are a mix of those that have been passed through the generations and those that have been adapted to the modern world. Therefore, the “strictness” of the faith has evolved through time in order to better meet the needs of the modern Jewish community.
The Benefits of Jewish Strictness?
The strictness of certain Jewish laws and regulations can be seen to have a positive effect on the Jewish community. By emphasizing the importance of certain beliefs and practices, Jewish strictness helps to create a sense of unity and community among the Jewish people.
The cultivation of an individual’s commitment to their faith can also be seen as a result of Jewish strictness. By following religious laws and traditions, one is able to strengthen their sense of faith and connection to God. Therefore, Jewish strictness can also lead to greater spiritual growth and religious devotion.
Lastly, the strict laws of the faith can be seen as providing guidance and structure to everyday life. By following such rules, Jews are able to maintain order in their lives and act ethically in accordance with their faith.
Critique of Judaism’s Strictness
Despite these benefits, there are those who are critical of Judaism’s strictness. Some claim that the strict laws and regulations of the faith impose too much control over individuals, limiting their autonomy and freedom. Such critics view Jewish strictness as a form of religious coercion, deterring individuals from acting independently.
Additionally, outside critics of the Jewish faith may view the laws as too restrictive and outdated, unable to keep up with the modern world. As a result, individuals may reject the laws in favor of more socially acceptable practices which can be seen as a threat to the preservation of Jewish culture.
Another critique of the strictness of Judaism is the claim that it is used as a tool of discrimination. It is argued that certain laws, such as the law of ‘Kashrut’ (the keeping of kosher food) and the law of modesty for women, serve to enforce certain gender and religious norms and divisions.
Critics may also view certain laws as outdated and impractical in today’s world. For example, the laws concerning the use of technology and electricity on the Sabbath have been subject to criticism due to their inflexibility in certain contexts.
Conclusion: Judaism’s Strictness in Context
The concept of Jewish strictness has been a source of debate throughout its history. Critics of the faith may view the laws as restrictive and outdated, while proponents of the faith see it as a way to preserve traditions and strengthen the faith. Ultimately, it is down to each individual to decide how they interpret the laws of the faith and how they incorporate them into their lifestyle.
