Pittsburgh Platform

Essential Judaism

  • The survival and relevance of Judaism rely on the meaningful engagement of Jews with their rites, celebrations, and observances.

Importance of Nomenclature in Discussing the Holocaust

  1. Terminology Sensitivity:

    • Many Jewish writers find the word "Holocaust" problematic due to its Christian connotations (derived from Greek meaning "burnt offering").

    • Preferable term: Shoah - Hebrew for "whirlwind" which avoids religious implications.

    • The term "exterminated" is rejected; "murdered" aligns more closely with the reality of the atrocities.

  2. Mystical Significance of the Number 36:

    • Holds a dual significance: double the number 18 (chai/life).

    • Associated with the lamed-vavniks, the hidden righteous who are believed to sustain the world's balance.

Key Documents of Contemporary Jewish Belief

Reform Judaism

The Pittsburgh Platform (1885)

  1. Recognition of Other Religions:

    • All religions seen as attempts to grasp the Infinite, with Judaism providing the highest understanding of the God-idea as revealed in sacred texts.

  2. Biblical Interpretation:

    • Acknowledges the Bible as the foundation of the Jewish people's consecration, emphasizing its role in moral teaching and integration with scientific discoveries.

  3. Mosaic Legislation:

    • Viewed as a historical framework for training, with contemporary relevance only to moral laws and ceremonial practices adapted to modern life.

  4. Critique of Ancient Laws:

    • Many Mosaic laws seen as outdated, hindering spiritual growth and relevance to modern Jewry.

  5. Messianic Hope:

    • Acknowledges a transition from national identity to a religious community; anticipates a kingdom of truth and justice rather than a return to statehood or sacrificial practices.

  6. Progressive Nature of Judaism:

    • Emphasis on ongoing alignment with reason and appreciation of Judaism’s historical roots; acknowledges Christianity and Islam's roles in the evolution of religious truth.

  7. Immortal Soul Doctrine:

    • Affirms the immortality of the soul rooted in the divine nature of humanity; dismisses concepts of bodily resurrection and eternal reward/punishment.

  8. Social Justice:

    • Calls for active participation in addressing societal inequities based on justice and righteousness.

The Columbus Platform (1937)

  • Nature of Judaism:

    • Defined as the historical religious experience of the Jewish people with a universal message of humanity's perfection under God's sovereignty.

  • Progressive Development:

    • Recognizes change in religious understanding and societal impact, welcoming truths from all sources, including scientific discoveries that complement core spiritual values.

  • Concept of God:

    • Central to Judaism is the belief in one God who governs through law and love, serving as the foundation for moral conduct and existence.