Orthodox Judaism

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Modern Orthodoxy comprises a fairly broad spectrum of movements; each draws upon several distinct, though related, philosophies. In general, its overall approach is the belief that one can and should be a full member of modern society, accepting the risks to remaining observant, because the benefits outweigh those risks. Jews should engage constructively with the world to foster goodness and justice. As expressed by Rabbi Saul Berman, Orthodox Judaism can 'be enriched' by its intersection with modernity; further, 'modern society creates opportunities to be productive citizens engaged in the Divine work of transforming the world to benefit humanity.' At the same time, any area of 'powerful inconsistency and conflict' between Torah and modern culture must be filtered out. Modern Orthodoxy traces its roots to the works of Rabbis Azriel Hildesheimer (1820–1899) and Samson Raphael Hirsch (1808–1888). Today, the movement is additionally influenced by the philosophy of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik and the closely related Torah Umadda, as well as by the writings of Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook.

Reader's Guide

Modern Orthodoxy assigns a central role to the 'People of Israel,' placing a high national and religious significance on the State of Israel, with institutions and individuals typically Zionist in orientation. Other core beliefs include recognition of the value of secular studies, commitment to equality of education for both men and women, and full acceptance of the importance of being able to financially support oneself and one's family. The specific expression takes many forms, describing a political spectrum. Issues include the extent of cooperation with more liberal denominations, support for secular academic pursuits combined with religious learning, and efforts to give women a larger role in Jewish learning and worship. To the ideological right, the line between Haredi and Modern Orthodox has blurred in recent years, a trend called 'haredization.' On the ideological left, 'Open Orthodoxy' seeks to re-engage with secular studies, Jews of all denominations, and global issues, with some experimenting with orthodox egalitarianism. Many Modern Orthodox are 'behaviorally modern' as opposed to 'ideologically modern,' defining themselves as Modern Orthodox only in the sense that they are neither Haredi nor Conservative.

Did You Know?

• Modern Orthodoxy draws on several teachings and philosophies, assuming various forms in the United States and Israel.
• In the US, Centrist Orthodoxy underpinned by Torah Umadda is prevalent; in Israel, Modern Orthodoxy is dominated by Religious Zionism.
• Rabbi Saul Berman stated that Orthodox Judaism can 'be enriched' by its intersection with modernity.
• The movement traces its roots to Rabbis Azriel Hildesheimer (1820–1899) and Samson Raphael Hirsch (1808–1888).
• To the ideological right, the line between Haredi and Modern Orthodox has blurred in recent years, a trend called 'haredization'.