Final answer:
The major groups within Judaism include Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and Reconstructionist, each with varying interpretations and practices of Jewish law and tradition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Judaism today is commonly divided into several major groups. The primary branches include Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and Reconstructionist Judaism. These groups differ in their interpretation and application of Jewish law and tradition.
- Orthodox Judaism maintains strict adherence to traditional Jewish law and customs, as interpreted by historical rabbinic authorities.
- Conservative Judaism takes a more moderate stance, upholding many traditional practices while being open to contemporary scholarship and adaptations to modern life.
- Reform Judaism, in contrast, offers a progressive approach, emphasizing individual choice and a focus on ethical teachings over ritual observance.
- The Reconstructionist movement views Judaism as an evolving religious civilization, placing emphasis on community and culture alongside religious practices.
These branches represent modern evolutions from historical sects and movements within Judaism, such as the Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, and the Zealots, which existed during the first century CE.