Orthodox Judaism is the collective term for the traditionalist branches of contemporary Judaism. Its adherents believe that the Torah, both Written and Oral, was revealed by God to Moses on Mount Sinai and faithfully follow traditional interpretations of Jewish law, or halakha. Here are some key characteristics of Orthodox Jews:
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Beliefs: Orthodox Jews believe in one God and adhere to the Ten Commandments and other associated laws of God from the Torah and Talmud.
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Observance: Observing Jewish law is essential to "what being Jewish means" to them, personally. Orthodox Jews follow traditional interpretations of Jewish law, or halakha, and are more likely than other Jews to participate in various Jewish religious practices. They attend synagogue three times a day, and men wear a small hat called a yarmulke while women wear wigs, scarves, or hats.
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Diversity: Today, Orthodox Judaism encompasses a vast terrain of religious outlook and practice. Some 62% of American Orthodox Jews identify as ultra-Orthodox (haredi), while roughly three-in-ten identify with the Modern Orthodox movement, which follows traditional Jewish law while simultaneously integrating into modern society.
Orthodox Jews are the most religiously stringent of the three main streams of American Judaism. They are estimated to be the largest Jewish religious group, with over 2 million practicing adherents and at least an equal number of nominal members.
