Martin Zagnoev
Most of these new movements have themselves been buried by history. These challengers have included numerous idolatrous cults and religions, as well as the Hellenists, Sadducees, Essenes, Karaites, Socialists and Communists.
Orthodox Judaism nevertheless began to decline in the 18th century with the advent of modern science, where many people (Jew and gentile alike) abandoned traditional religious beliefs. For many of our people, this seemed like a good opportunity to overcome anti-Semitism by jettisoning the ancient traditions which made us different from the non-Jewish majorities. Thus, the Haskalah (Jewish Enlightenment) came into being. This was, however, unsuccessful.
Reform Judaism then arose with a similar goal. Most of the ancient rituals were discarded and synagogues were made to resemble Christian churches. Interestingly this began in Germany, where Hitler later arose and failed to be impressed by these reforms. Left-wing Zionism also discouraged religious practice.
By the 1940s, Orthodoxy seemed to be dying. In addition to all of the above, Hitler had destroyed all the great yeshivot and had wiped out all the large religious communities. A common stereotype of an Orthodox Jew was of an old man with a Yiddish accent.
Even in the Holy Land, religious observance was at a very low ebb and David Ben-Gurion believed it would soon disappear.
In America, which holds the largest Jewish community in the Diaspora, Reform took hold while Orthodoxy seemed to be doomed.
Since then there has been a remarkable turnaround. A common stereotype of religious Jews is now of a young couple pushing a pram.
In America, virtually all Reform Jews have assimilated grandchildren. (It receives new members from people leaving the Conservative and Orthodox movements). Orthodoxy is now growing rapidly around the world.
Finally, “Progressive” Judaism was largely based on the belief that the gentiles hated us because of our different traditions. It now appears as if they often respect us most when we adhere to them.
Sunningdale Ridge, Johannesburg
MONICA SOLOMON
Feb 11, 2016 at 12:31 pm
‘Progressive Jews do not, in any way, shape or form, believe that gentiles hated us. I am a proudly Progressive Jewess who thinks about, learns about and grows through my Judaism. I am religiously observant and have yet to worship in (or see) a Progressive Synagogue that resembles a Christian Church. Shame on you, Mr Zagnoev, for writing such a letter, and shame on the SAJR for publishing it.’
Simeon
Feb 12, 2016 at 6:29 am
‘Ummmm, Monica – you went to school at St Theresa’s Convent. Nuff said!’