6/3(Tue) Haredi

Jun 3. 2025

#Haredi

#UltraOrthodoxJewish

Ultra-Orthodox Jews, also known as Haredi Jews (or Haredim), are a group within Judaism known for their strict religious observance, traditional lifestyles, and separation from secular society.

They represent a diverse, but generally conservative, religious community.

Quick Overview

Term Meaning

“Ultra-Orthodox”

Common secular term, often avoided by insiders who prefer “Haredi” (Hebrew: חרדי, meaning “one who trembles [in awe of God]”)

Population Over 2 million globally (mostly in Israel, USA, and UK)

Key Belief

Torah and Talmud are literally true and binding, and Jewish law (halakha) must govern all aspects of life

#Torah

Key Characteristics

1. Religious Life

• Strict observance of Jewish law (halakha)

• Daily prayer, study of Torah and Talmud

• Observance of Sabbath (Shabbat) and kosher dietary laws

• Gender separation in synagogues, schools, and many public settings

2. Clothing & Appearance

• Men: Black suits, hats (often wide-brimmed), tzitzit (fringes), and peyot (sidelocks)

• Women: Modest dress, often long sleeves and skirts; married women often cover their hair (scarves, wigs—sheitel)

3. Education

• Heavy focus on religious studies, especially for boys

• Secular studies (math, science, English) often limited or discouraged in some communities

• Yeshiva (religious school) is central

4. Community Structure

• Tend to live in tight-knit neighborhoods (e.g., Mea Shearim in Jerusalem, Bnei Brak in Israel, Brooklyn in New York)

• Life often centers on the Rebbe or Rabbi, who holds great authority

• Avoid integration into secular society and modern culture (TV, internet often restricted)

Subgroups Within Haredi Judaism

Group Description

Hasidic Jews

Mystically inclined, followers of a specific Rebbe; wear distinct clothing; originated in Eastern Europe

Lithuanian/“Yeshivish” Jews Emphasize Talmud study and yeshiva scholarship; less mystical

Sephardic Haredim From Middle Eastern/North African descent; blend tradition with Haredi norms

Global Distribution

Country Estimate

Israel ~1.3 million (about 15% of population)

USA ~500,000–600,000 (mainly in New York, New Jersey)

UK ~60,000 (mainly in London and Manchester)

Role in Society

In Israel

• Large and politically powerful community

• Many men study Torah full-time and are exempt from military service

• Some conflict with secular society over education, gender roles, military, and work

• Strong influence on coalition politics through Haredi political parties (e.g., Shas, United Torah Judaism)

In the Diaspora

• Often live in insular communities

• Operate own schools, kosher markets, courts, and social services

• Tensions sometimes arise over public health, education standards, or urban planning

Common Misconceptions

Misconception Clarification

All Haredim are the same There’s diversity of customs, ideology, and levels of openness within the community

They are against modern life Many use modern tools (e.g., filtered smartphones, tech for business), but avoid secular influence

They don’t work Many do work (especially in the U.S.), but in Israel, a significant portion study Torah full-time

They are anti-Zionist Some groups (e.g., Satmar Hasidim) are anti-Zionist, but others participate actively in Israeli politics