The Jewish groups themselves reject characterization as sects. Sects are traditionally defined as religious subgroups that have broken off from the main body, and this separation usually becomes irreparable over time.

Feb 14, 2024 · Once a unified religion, Judaism is very diverse today and encompasses four major groups. Find out more about the Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and Hassidic Jewish sects.

Below is a comprehensive overview of the principal Jewish sects, both ancient and modern, outlining their key teachings, scriptural intersections, and historical significance.

There are a number of distinct sects, most headed by a charismatic rabbi, or rebbe, including Chabad, Satmar, Ger and Skver. Sometimes also known as Litvish, these haredi Jews are heirs of the mitnagdim (literally “opponents”) who rejected the the rise of Hasidic Judaism in Europe.

Religious sectarianism was indeed an unusual occurrence within ancient Judaism. Neither before the second century B.C.E. nor after 70 C.E. did the same range of organized sects exist among Jews, and thus the situation that first crys­tallized under the Hasmoneans was indeed sui generis.

Jul 9, 2023 · Two thousand years ago, Jews were divided between competing sects all based on the Jewish scriptures, but with different interpretations. After the Romans destroyed the Jerusalem Temple in 70 C.E., one main group, who called themselves “rabbis” – …

Oct 25, 2022 · There are an estimated 3,000 different sects of Judaism, each with their own unique customs and beliefs. The three largest and most well-known sects are Orthodox Judaism, Conservative Judaism, and Reform Judaism.

Jun 15, 2023 · Two thousand years ago, Jews were divided between competing sects all based on the Jewish scriptures, but with different interpretations. After the Romans destroyed the Jerusalem Temple in 70...

For a religious tradition that has been active over more than three millennia, Judaism has surprisingly few sects, and only four major divisions, which can be easily distinguished.

Nov 1, 2023 · Jews encompass a range of denominations, including Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, and Reconstructionist. Distinct Jewish sects, such as Kohanim, Levites, and Israelites, have historical significance and unique religious roles.