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Ultraorthodox view of law

Question:

What is the difference between how orthodox jews and ultraotrthodox jews view the origin of halacha?

Answer:

Thank you for your question.

Before answering your question it is important to note that in Jewish literature there is no such term as orthodox and ultra-orthodox. The term ultra-orthodox is a term created by the media to isolate, and discredit many of the orthodox Jews, by making them appear extreme. However as far as the origins of halacha, the transmission of the oral law, and the authority or the torah and halacha, there is no difference between the two. Both orthodox and what is termed ultra-orthodox Jews believe in the halachic process, both believe that Moses received the oral law from G-d on Mount Sinai. Both believe that the rabbis were given the authority to make enactments, and safeguards to distance us from transgressing the Torah’s laws, as written, (Deuteronomy 71-11) According to the Torah and laws that they (the Sanhedrin) will tell you, you shall do. Do not stray from what they command you right of left”.

Having said that, there are certain slight differences between the two regarding certain halachic rulings.  It should be noted, that part of Jewish law is to be considerate to others, and in fact a very large part of Jewish law revolves around the laws of how to treat others correctly.

Best wishes

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