In addition, progressive Jews are much more open to adaptations to Jewish law, and believe that it is their right to change traditions to modern life situations of the current society culture. Orthodox Jews however believe that the scriptures are sacred and should be kept divine. They keep all Jewish festivals in a traditional way and follow Jewish laws as far as they possibly can. This is displayed on Shabbat. Orthodox Jews will observe Shabbat very strictly, whereas progressive Jews will be more flexible with laws e.g. they may drive to the synagogue, go out on a Saturday etc.
C) Explain the use and the importance of the Talmud.
The Talmud is a book containing discussion and interpretations of the Mishnah. It was compiled by educated Rabbis and students in around 500CE, and is widely recognised as one of the most important books for Jewish teaching.
The Talmud is important to Jews because it gives guidance. The Torah can often be hard to understand, and for Jewish learners the Talmud gives clear interpretations. It gives guidance to Jews and helps them to understand the Torah better.
The Talmud is important to Jews as it has always been used by scholars. Jewish ancestry is very important to Jews and the fact that this book has been used for hundreds of years and thought of as a book of great knowledge means that it is very important in Judaism.
Jews think of the Talmud as important as it is derived from the words of God. The first oral Torah, the Mishnah, was created through Moses and was thought to be the word of God. As the Talmud is written interpretation of God’s word, it is very important, as Jews keep God’s word as sacred and divine.
D) “There is no point keeping religious laws in the 20th Century. Do you agree?
In conclusion, I disagree with the above statement, instead believing that there is definitely an important purpose of religion. Especially in Judaism, it is important to have a community of people that can protect each other from any dangers they may face, and without this, people would have nowhere to turn to when they are in trouble. People need guidance to maintain the smooth running of everyday life, and religion provides a set of morals that are easy to understand and stick to. Laws can easily be added to adapt to modern day society, and many technological barriers can be overcome. Hatred and violence would still take place without religion, except that people would have no-one to turn to when things got really bad. In conclusion, I feel that there is a purpose to religion.
