1.2.7

Reform Judaism

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Reform Judaism

Reform Judaism is another movement within Judaism. They treat the Jewish scriptures quite differently from Orthodox Jews.

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Reform Judaism

  • There is another group of Jews who belong to the Reform Movement.
    • This branch of Judaism has different beliefs about the Torah and its relevance today.
  • Reform Jews believe that the Torah was written by people who were inspired spiritually.
    • And its laws reflect the time period when it was given.
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Reform Judaism and the Torah

  • Reform Jews do not accept the Torah as the direct word of God and do not believe the Torah has ultimate authority.
    • The Torah's laws can be changed if science or modern views contradict the Torah’s message.
  • Overall, Reform Judaism perceives the Torah as an attempt for Jews to understand their relationship with God.
    • But, The Torah allows for reinterpretation in the modern world.
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Reform Judaism and the Talmud

  • The Talmud is also viewed as composed by people from a certain period of time.
    • So, if life today is different from the ideas in the Talmud it can be pushed aside.
  • It has been said that according to Reform Judaism the Torah and Talmud have 'a vote, not a veto'.
    • This means that the Torah and Talmud will be considered, but not followed if they can be properly challenged by modern thinking.

Jump to other topics

1Year 7

1.1Origins of Abrahamic Faith

1.2Judaism

1.3Christianity

1.4Buddhism

2Year 8

3Year 9

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