Why Are the Rules of the Haredi Jews So Strict? Are They the True Rules of Judaism or the Radicals?

Strict and Radical, According to Whom?

Haredim, often labeled as ultra-orthodox Jews, are a sect within the broader ultra-orthodox spectrum. Each sect follows the vision and opinions of certain rabbinical groups, making their adherence to the Torah (considered mandatory for all Jews) incredibly strict. It's important to clarify that not all Haredi Jews fit into the 'true' definition of Judaism in the traditional sense. Labels like 'radical' can be subjective, based on external perspectives rather than an objective measure of religious practice.

Haredi Observance: A Closer Look

The Haredi community aims to adhere meticulously to the dos and don'ts they are aware of, often to a point where their observance exceeds standard expectations. Two key factors contribute to this:

Rabbinical Authority: They follow the directives of a specific rabbi, whose word is considered law. This centralizes authority but also creates a potential for conflicting interpretations of rules. Competition Among Rabbis: There is an ongoing competition among rabbis to be the strictest, leading to an expansion of rules and prohibitions.

For instance, to avoid even the slightest possibility of inadvertently breaking a rule, Haredi Jews often set up additional 'fences' around the main commandments. This practice can lead to what some might find as 'ludicrous prohibitions.'

The Dispute Over Jewish Rules

Even among qualified religious authorities, there is ongoing debate about the true rules of Judaism. It's natural for a community used to detailed religious discourse and interpretation to have disputes, and this is reflected in Haredi Judaism. However, this strict adherence does not indicate a deviation from Judaism itself but rather an extreme form of its observance.

The Mission of Transforming the World

Judaism does not define strictness or leniency as values in themselves. Instead, using the Torah, both written and oral, as a guide to transform the world into a dwelling place for God is the primary mission. The rules and practices, while appearing strict, are necessary to fulfill this mission, much like the requirement for a food company employee to wear a net over their beard to ensure food purity.

These practices are not about compliance out of strictness but about fulfilling a divine mission. Haredi Judaism represents a more radical end of this spectrum but remains within the larger framework of Judaism.

In conclusion, understanding Haredi Judaism requires looking beyond simple labels and recognizing the nuanced and dedicated nature of their observance. While their rules may seem strict to some, they are rooted in a deeply held mission to serve God and improve the world.