Racial and Ethnic Groups

Racial and Ethnic Groups

Judaism

Judaism is the religion Jews practice. Their belief system caused many Jews to be subject to discrimination, physical and emotional abuse and even sacrificing their lives for the sake of what they believe. They have debated within their own race about different forms of Judaism, fought for their right to live in America. Despite their rocky beginnings they have become established people that have contributed to the community.

The seventeenth century saw the first Jews settle in North America. In 1654 when the first Jewish people arrived in from Brazil they were not welcomed with open arms. In 1655 the Jewish community began to establish themselves by purchasing land for burial grounds and to build Synagogues. Many people that did not share their beliefs opposed their coming. It was such a conflict the Jews were taken to court. The Supreme Court ruled they would be able to become settlers, but they would have to fend for themselves. They were expected to take care of their poor by providing food and shelter, travel and trade. During this time it was a struggle for the Jewish community to establish religious rituals in the new country.

Judaism is the religion of choice for Jewish people and is practiced in three forms; Orthodox, Reform and Conservative. All three types of Judaism made an impact on how the Jewish community practices religion today. Like other religions Judaism, has a specific doctrine which they follow. For example those practicing Christianity base their doctrine on what is contained in the Holy Bible. Judaism’s doctrine is based on the Torah. The Torah was originally in Oral form but was later translated into a written form. The Jews had no place to practice their religion of choice, Judaism, in the new country so they originally adapted to an Americanized practice of Judaism until the mid 1800s.

The original Jewish settlers practiced what is known as Reformed Judaism. As older Jews came to America they...