Reform Judaism
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 1.2.12
Reform Judaism
Reform Judaism is another movement within Judaism. They treat the Jewish scriptures quite differently from Orthodox Jews.
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.
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.
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.
Test yourself on Reform Judaism
What does Reform Judaism believe about who wrote the Torah?
What are the three key things that Reform Judaism believes about the Torah?
Which of these statements about Reform Judaism is true?