Orthodox and Reform synagogues
There are certain differences between Orthodox and Reform synagogues.
Seating
Traditionally, men and women were separated during worship in the synagogue. This was done to avoid distraction and to ensure that all attention was on the service.
In Orthodox synagogues, men and women are still separated and will sit in different parts of the synagogue for the service.
In Reform synagogues, men and women are now seated together.
Ordination of rabbis
A rabbi is an ordained Jewish religious leader who is trained in interpreting and applying the sacred scriptures to contemporary issues and circumstances. Traditionally, only men could be ordained as a rabbi in Judaism. In Orthodox traditions women are still not allowed to be ordainTo appoint (of priest, vicar, minister or rabbi). as a rabbi. Reform movements are more relaxed about this and will allow women to ordain as rabbis. However, there will still be things that women cannot do, such as being counted in the minyanIn Judaism, a minimum number (quorum) of ten men required for a service. In progressive communities this may include ten adults of either sex..
Question
Describe the differences between the Orthodox and Reform synagogue.
The Orthodox synagogue still holds very traditional Jewish values and is not open to changing these values to fit in with the twenty-first century world. Orthodox synagogues will not allow the ordination of women rabbis as this was traditionally considered a man's role. Reform synagogues will allow women to become rabbis, but there are still some things they cannot do such as being counted in the minyan. Orthodox synagogues will not allow men and women to be seated together as this has been viewed as a potential distraction in the past. Reform synagogues allow men and women to sit together.