 | Orthodox. Conservative. Reform. Reconstructionist. Secular. Religious... Where did all these labels come from? Did Moses organize the people around Mt Sinai in accordance with their denominational affiliations?
38 Comments Posted
I like your focus on unity and ahavas chinom, but you overlook a major problem. Your typical Reform or secular Jew is pro-gay marriage, pro-abortion, pro-strict separation of church and state, pro-Peace Now and lets give back all of Judea and Samaria... and your typical Orthodox or traditional Jew veers towards the opposite. So the real differences are far more intense and yes, acrimonious than whether X is glatt kosher and goes to shul regularly and Y only occasionally eats kosher and only goes to shul on the High Holidays.
If the problem were only a question of the degree of one's ritual practice, then the author's point about the folly of labels would be well taken. But as noted, the differences are deeper and sharper, and to deny or ignore them is naive in the extreme.
I know Chabad likes to put a smiling face on everything and to quote the Rebbe as the all-loving pater familias-- but you know, there are anti-Torah r'shayim out there and alas, many of them are Jews.
|
While that is true... there is something to be said for the fact that if we ARE able to look beyond even those things that you have mentioned we may learn more about the "other side" and be able to do outreach there as well. And what's wrong with a smiling face? It's about time the Jews have something to smile about! Shannah Tovah
|
As you can see, some Jews really need those labels. They cling to them. They need to believe that there are absolute reasons to stick to their current way of thinking and write off anyone who lives in a different way. It's a form of spiritual insecurity that I used to suffer from as well until I made some friends who are much more observant than I am and realized that they weren't judging me as harshly as I was judging them (and as harshly as Pinchas is judging "your typical reform or secular Jew"). It is this insecurity that prompt a need for rabbis to dictate politics to their congregations and that lead Jews to seal themselves off from other Jews - preferring the comfort of untrue stereotypes to reaching out and admitting that none of us are entitled to count the mitzvot of our brothers and sisters.
|
I second Rivkah and Lauren’s comments.
Mr. Baram --
You are a very persuasive and articulate writer -- but it seems you missed the point here.
You remarked, *If the problem were only a question of the degree of one's ritual practice, then the author's point about the folly of labels would be well taken.*
That is the only *problem.* The article was solely related to the degree of ones ritual observance, moreover orthodox Jews political partisanship is, or should be, based on degrees of religious values anyway!
Taking your examples of abortion, euthanasia, the interpretations of the first amendments establishment clause, gay marriage, and the safety of Israel -- those are all issues that are formed by ones degree of adherence to Torah values. So the question is, as Rabbi Shalom M. Paltiel eloquently described in this article, only about ones own level on the orthodox continuum, not divisive labels.
|
G_d did not know the word 'LABELS'. I totally agree with the author! Labels are a way of putting all of us in a different file cabinet; or different files within the same cabinet! I want to be in ONLY one file cabinet; that of G_d's....
|
Thank you for such an article, under the skin we are Jews no matter our physical, language, and any other differences. I am so grateful for your website, which has brought me closer and more committed to ensuring that my Jewish identity and beliefs will not end with me, but will continue on with my two sons, in the face of our isolation and lack of numbers in such a minute community, in a small island in the caribbean, I thank the day that I found you, I am resolved to keep the legacy of all my people, yes truly underneath the skin we are Jews. Best wishes,
|
Growing up reform,
Keeping traditions - lighting candles,
It was what I knew --
The loving home I grew up in....
Now, being more observant -
I still have an aversion for labels...
When someone asks -
What kind of jew are you?
(and I looked puzzled)
They further clarify -
Orthodox, conservative, etc...
I look at them and smile...
What kind of Jew?
Hopefully - a good one....
Shana tova...
|
This short essay spoke to me and I'm sure to everyone who labels him or herself as well as labels other Jews... you are absolutely right and you wrote so eloquently... thank you. Shana Tova.
|
I don't think the point Pinchas makes is valid. Many Orthodox Jews are Democrats, think of Senator Liberman, some non-religious Jews are Republicans, look at Mayor Bloomberg. A Jew is a Jew and his political opinion isn't linked to his religious affiliation.
|
Unity -- yes. Our place to judge our fellow Jew as being "less" Jewish due to a label? No. But what about that "Reform" or Conservadox, etc. person who uses this essay to rationalize to not follow Torah? How does one condone that? Granted there are 2 actions -- one is the person rationalizing, and one is the person who takes it upon themselves to judge another person. But the one who is looking to rationalize reads this essay and says "Even Chabad says it is okay.....", which of course is not the message here. What do I tell this person, without becoming self-righteous and pompous instead of supportive?
|
You missed one common label, my brother-in-law identifies himself as a gastronomical Jew. He enjoys the food at the Holidays.
|
Back when I grew up across Hempstead Harbor from the author in Glenwood Landing, there weren't very many Jews in that area. I left Long Island in 1967 to go to Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie-Mellon University) and never went back.
As a baales teshuva, non-observant relatives and friends often ask me "what kind" of Jew I am. "Vanilla," I reply. Works for me.
|
Firstly a thank you to the author, Rabbi Shalom Paltiel.
I find myself in total agreement with him as well as Lynn Teichman @ hopefully a good one & at the same time hopefully a little better of a Jew in 5766.
Having grown up Consevative, been unafillated only to belong to a Reform Shul for 21 years & somehow 4 years ago wandering into Lubavitch, well it is indeed 1 Jew & 1 Mitzvah at a time.
All encompassing Lubavitch...you Jew, me Jew, well it's the only real way to go.
Thanks Rebbe & thanks Lubavitch, you do indeed make a difference
|
I completely agree with you about the negative effects that the labels impose on us the Jewish people. There are only Jews, without any denominations, the Jewish nation is one, so it is its people.
|
I am not a Lubavitcher; in fact I am a member of a reform temple. However, Schneur Zalman proposed the existence of a Jewish soul created from the mind of G-d, in the Tanya. If he is correct, there may be no need for labels at that very broad level. However, he also differentiated between the tzaddik, the individual who succumbs to the evil inclination, and the people in the middle.
On a lower level, there are Jews that may not keep kosher and may not observe the Sabbath but are good to their fellow humans (and vice versa). At that level, each of us is differentiated by the degree of observance of the 613 prescribed mitzvot of which observance of an individual mitzvah may be further segmented into degrees i.e.- with all the combinatons, this defines our individuality rather than classifies us into a broad category of Jew along with millions of others.
Therefore, I agree with the author at each level.
|
Kudos to the author for taking issue with the way we label ourselves. In my case, I have been struggling with the inability to label our family's level of observance- and from now on, I'm going to stop trying. We belong to both the Orthodox shul and the Reform Temple, and believe it or not, we are fine with this. By going to the Orthodox shul and Chabad activities, we have upped our level of observance - - even if we are sick, we light the candles each and every Shabbat - and next week we will erect our first sukka at home. By going to the Reform congregation, my children meet many more of their peers, and we see that Jews can come in much more diversity than they do in our "other" home congregation.
When people are incredulous at our dual membership, I simply tell them, thank G-d we are able to help support two congregations!
Shana Tova, everyone - both frum, and not so frum
|
I enjooyed reading your article on the reason why we read Kol Nidrei on Yom Kipper, but I was a little confused at the connection you made. In the the most straightforward way, Kol Nidrei is about annuling our promises. How is labelling people or ourselves connected to promises? Looking forward to your reply. I would also like to know if there is a source for this connection so I could look it up myself.
Yours sincerely,
|
Mr. Baram, you have proven yourself here to be the 'Diogenes' of Chabad.org; willing to face the problem honestly: There is a tremendous difference between the all-too few of you who are frum and shomer shabbos and the rest of Bnai Israel. and the difference is so profound that it threatens the future of Eretz Yisrael, and within a couple of more toledoths can take you all back into exile. Unfortunately, the labels between you all are real, and do describe in reality that many among Bnai Israel follow the examples of Esav, Onan, and Korach, rather then of Yaakov who prevailed as Israel. This is the biggest problem facing Israel now; not Hamas and Hezbollah; not Xtianist proselytizing; and G-d willing for the new year many more Jews such as Mr. Pinchas Baram will raise the alarm and prod the rest of you to do something about it. The sense of urgency of which Moshe spoke towards the end of Devarim has returned; and as Hillel once said-'if not now, when?' Shana Tovah.
|
Like Nechama, I don't understand the connection between the author's point about labeling Jews and Kol Nidrei.
Also, just wondering, would Rabbi Paltiel pray or give a lecture in a Reform temple's sanctuary? And what would Rabbi Paltiel do if he found himself in an unfamiliar community and had to spend Shabbos there - would he inquire as to who in the community was Shomer Shabos and Kosher or would that be labeling people?
Jews are Jews, no matter what, true. At the same time, we label OURSELVES by our actions, and halacha requires us to know who is Sabbath observant, who is kosher, who can be a witness to a marriage, etc.
By the way, does Rabbi Paltiel consider himself a Chasid? Is that a label?
|
OK. So Hashem loves ALL Jews? How about "Jews" who do not belive in G-d? How about Jews that actively proclaim themselve, organize gatherings, congregations and services as "Jews Without G-d"? In short, apikorosim. How about m'shamdim? What was the treatment of the "Acher"?
|
Yehudis, you're missing the point. Those are all outside things. Noone is arguing that we are not diffrent. But inside we are all the same, JEWS!
|
It is great article and thanks for mentioning the truth. Israel was great when united and defeated when divided. Our promised day is when Judah and Israel will be reunited as Bible mentioned. I see in unification of all Jews that symbolic reunion of one, that artificialy was spread to several parts.
Shalom and Hatima Tova,
|
As a "Reform" Jew who has been attending my local Chabad House for 3 years and now have become a label-less Torah Jew (or Chabad'nik) perhaps I can help clarify the issue being debated here:
The Rebbe and Chabad teach us to see all Jews as label-less
and equal. This does not mean that we are to see all Jewish philosophies as equally valid and true. To the contrary: If Jews have no labels then they belong to the Judaism of Moses, unadulterated, pure and unchangebale. But we don't judge their behavior, just encourage them to do as much as they can. They are our brothers and sisters. Treat them as you would your own brother and sister, or child, who might not be up to par but is trying their best; with patientce, love and respect, and certainly don't judge them. It's not a contest or a race to the top on who could be more frum faster. It's a personal journey of each individual and their personal relationship with G-d, their Father in Heaven.
One more important thought I learned at Chabad:
Since G-d sees us as His children and the mitzvahs are given to us for our own good, He might have more pleasure from a less initiated Jew doing one mitzvah once a year than the frum guy who davens three times a day, much like a parent will celebrate the time their C student child gets an A in a very big way. Rambam (Maimonides) says this clearly, that G-d doesn't just judge the actions, but the whole inner situation of the person, etc. (Laws of Tshuva I believe). The point here is - Judaism is a family and G-d is our Father; not a Religion and G-d being the boss we want to placate ( as the author wrote)
|
As we were to begin kol nidre, a white car passed our synagogue in Green Bay, WI. Two congregants witnessed and heard the driver scream "dirty jews." See Rabbi Paltiel is absolutely correct. No denomination, level of observance, or knowledge separates us. At the core, we are the only minority hated by all. Anti-semitism and intolerance applies to frum, secular, or the most observant.
For when we are a great nation, hashem will provide. But, now divided, concerned about our "label" we face the ultimate paradox. And, so it goes....
A good fast to all.
And, thank you for bringing such a wonderful connection to my vanishing world.
|
This was a wonderful article, I loved it. I loved the jokes, and I thought his points were wonderful, and showed a tolerance a little hard to find in Orthodox Judaism. I am looking forward to more by this author.
|
I, too, do not understand the connection between labels and Kol Nidrei...
Is there a label for that ('talmudical analysis challenged' Jew, perhaps?)?
I do, however, think that I understand what Rabbi Paltiel was trying to say regarding the issue of 'labels' itself.
As he seems to be busy, I will try to fill in for him (we are on the same team, so I am sure he won't mind my pintch hitting)...
The difference between one Jew and another is only circumstantial, not essential, hence the inapplicability of any real labels.
I often have the chance to point this out when someone tells me that he does not eat kosher, for example, because he is not an observant Jew.
My response is: 'Your reasoning is inverted - eat Kosher and you will become an observant Jew'.
In other words, there is no category of Jew that is exempt from observing Kashrus. Being observant or not depends on the individual's choice of behavior, not on any real difference in status.
|
I loved your article on removing labels. It is true that the labels that define us often limit our interaction with Jews of a different label and therefore opportunities to grow from one another. In defense of Reform or Secualr Jews, it is quite a generalization to believe that although a Jew does not practice all mitzvohs, that they are also liberal minded across the board.
I a Jew and you a Jew. I look forward to a new year, learning and participating in new mitzvoh.
|
The thing is that just 'removing the labels' between Jews is like the emperor from the Hans Anderson story proclaiming that he's wearing a new suit of clothes when in fact he is still naked. O' Bnai Israel, does just 'removing the labels' change anything in reality? Yes, it is true that the 'labels' between you are stopping Jews from interacting with each other when you do need more unity; BUT (big but here)-you cannot just 'remove the labels' and then all pretend that you've got a 'new suit of clothes'; that's not going to cut it, either. The undenial fact is since the end of Shoah officially, Bnai Israel has lost almost as many since then as it did then, and most of the loss was through the so-called 'reform-secular-liberal branch' of Judaism. Just removing the label 'reform' is not only not going to fix the problem, it will continue into the next toledoth for sure. What to do then? A good question to start the new year, for this can't go on. It's got to change soon.
|
I agree with the story and was deeply moved. My father taught me many years ago that we were Jewish but reform and other groups were really not. Today with my Wife whom has chosen to be Jewish, I have learned to accept even reformers as Jewish. Our reform synagogue runs an Inn from The Cold night weekly to help the homeless. It would be nice if the conservative and Orthodox would do the same. I believe in Conservative-Orthodox, but support the Chabad and the Reform Synagogues.
|
I had one little problem with the article. In it, you say, "Sure, He'd (G-d) like us all to "reach for the stars" and try to observe Judaism fully in all of its beauty and depth. But that's for long term."
I am a proud Conservative Jew. I consider myself observant, as I observe every law and custom of Judaism, in the manner interpreted by Conservative rabbis, and I believe in them. Your article implies that I am only trying to be small-o orthodox, and that in the "long term", I should eventually get that way. Conservative Judaism has just as much "beauty and depth" as orthodox Judaism. Your article shows orthodox Judaism as the climax of Judaism; this is not so.
|
I believe we all need to be in one file cabinet. That of Jews or non Jews. On Rhosh Hashonah we pray for attonement/forgiveness and on Yom Kippur it is sealed, as we make our final appeal to the highest court. G_D does not say you are pro abortion, pro euthanasia? He asks us are you Jewish? Are you truly asking for forgiveness or just making an appearance here? We as Jews whether reform, conservative or orthodox all face the one, the almighty. We do not want to be sheperded like cattle, your under 900, your 900-1000, or your over 1000 and therefore categorized.
I will stand together with all three grouped labelled and say I AM JEWISH and what are you?
I defend your right to your beliefs, but I say we are all still Jewish. About Abortion, my wife is anti, but is still reform. Does that make her bad? nope. I am pro euthanasia in certain circumstances, does that make me A BAD ORTHODOX? NO.
|
I was raised as a child in an orthodox home. After serving in the army during wwII I joined an orthodox schul. i was not happy I then joined a reform congregation and have been affiliated with a reform congregation for over 50 years. although I do not observe some of the many rules of the orthodox congregants, I still believe that i am as good a Jew as most orthodox Jews in that I believe that my way of life and my conduct and my high moral standards and way of life, plus charitable giving to jewish and non jewish causes makes me proud to be a so called reform jew.
|
I enjoyed and truly felt your article. No matter that I declare myself, Ortho, Conservative, or Reformed, and at different times ive been self declared each and in no particular order, no one can take away my belief...my essence.
|
On a grand scheme you could say we are all human, why the need to distinguish ourselves as Jews, Christians, or Muslims. Are we not all G-ds children. Once we've been labeled, we no longer feel the need to learn more about others than is typical for members of our particular group. Remove the label, and belief and faith are yours to explore, completely and freely, without fear you might cross the line and observe some tradition that's not for your type. See my point?
|
whilst i agree with the general sense of this sermonette i feel that the "who is a Jew" issue which is at the core of all the division was avoided.
if reform convert in such a way that another group cant accept than
your thesis of I Jew- you jew is flawed
given that most of the people reading this article are acutely aware of the issue what do you say?
|
This is a very beautiful, well-crafted essay.
I would suggest that there is a reason for experimenting with different approaches to G-d. In the 2,000 years since Torah was written-down in Babylon our Kin have contributed to changing the World in remarkable ways.
What would the conversations between Moses and G_D be, if they were conducted today? Have not the past 2,000 years contained changes of such massive significance that the blood of those who gave their lives to write those events cry out for them to be recorded as continuations of G_D's teachings?
Is there not a vast difference between cultures that have evolved under (at least in part) the guidance of G_D's Laws, and those that have refused to change their ancient primitive ways?
Is this not leading to a more massive conflict than any recorded in Torah? Can we not see G_D's hand in this gargantuan Kider-Shpiel? Is the difference observable between good and evil not now clear enough?
|
This message made feel much better. Thank you very much. Shalom!
|
so beautifully written and so true.
Gmar hatima tova : )
|
|
|
|
|
LOGIN
ASK THE RABBI
Read this article
