Haredi Judaism

Haredi Judaism is a specific sector within Orthodox Judaism.

It is defined by a strict interpretation of religious sources. Adherents follow Jewish law and traditions with great intensity. They view these laws as binding and unchangeable. Many Haredim consider themselves the most authentic custodians of tradition. They often view other contemporary movements as deviations from God's laws. This commitment to religious law shapes every aspect of their lives.

The lifestyle of Haredim often involves social segregation. They frequently separate themselves from other parts of broader society. This helps them maintain their specific religious standards. However, this separation is not always absolute in every community. Some Haredi groups encourage young people to earn professional degrees. Others encourage them to establish their own businesses. In contrast, some groups like Chabad-Lubavitch focus on outreach. They seek to connect with non-observant or unaffiliated Jews.

The term "Haredi" has a deep linguistic meaning. It is a Modern Hebrew adjective derived from a Biblical verb. This verb appears in the Book of Isaiah. It is translated as "one who trembles" at the word of God. This refers to an awe-inspired fear of performing God's will. It is similar to how Quakers describe their relationship to God. Many outsiders use the term "ultra-Orthodox" to describe this group. However, many Haredim find that term pejorative or offensive. They feel it suggests irrational extremism.

Because of these feelings, different names are used. Some suggest "strictly Orthodox" or "traditional Orthodox" as better labels. In the Jewish diaspora, "Haredi" is often preferred over "ultra-Orthodox." Some scholars suggest the term "ultra-Orthodox" may have emerged in the 1950s. This was when Haredi survivors of the Holocaust arrived in America. Some Haredim also use Yiddish terms for themselves. These include words for "virtuous Jews" or "pious" people. In Israel, some use the derogatory slang "dossim."

The history of this movement is linked to major societal shifts. Scholars suggest Haredi Judaism was a reaction to several changes. These include the Enlightenment and the movement of political emancipation. It was also a response to secularization and religious reform. The rise of Jewish national movements also played a role. These pressures helped shape the distinct Haredi identity we see today. The community has remained focused on preserving ancient customs despite these changes.

The Haredi population is growing at a very rapid rate. As of 2020, there were approximately 2.1 million Haredim globally. This represents 14% of the total world Jewish population. The population is on pace to more than double every 20 years. This growth is driven by high birth rates and high retention rates. There is also a lack of intermarriage within the community. Since the 1970s, the "baal teshuva" movement has also increased numbers. This movement involves secular Jews adopting a Haredi lifestyle.

Geographically, the Haredi population is concentrated in specific areas. Israel holds the largest Haredi population in the world. In 1948, there were only about 35,000 to 45,000 Haredim in Israel. By the end of 2025, they may exceed 1.45 million people there. This represents over 14% of the Israeli population. Major concentrations include Jerusalem and Bnei Brak. The United States has the second largest population. In 2020, there were approximately 700,000 ultra-Orthodox Jews in the U.S. Western Europe also has notable communities in London and Antwerp.