Why do Orthodox Jews hate other Jews?

Answer 1

The question is something like asking "Why do Catholics beat their children?" The listener jumps directly to an attempt to assemble an answer, without stopping to examine the validity of the assumption in the question. These questions are made to order for those who have an axe to grind, and are just waiting for a chance to start grinding it.

It's interesting to notice that the "contributor" who asked this question, posted it within a minute of 'answering' the question "Why do Orthodox Jews not accept other Jews ?" ... with, shall we say, an answer that was less than ecumenical; and in neither place did he feel at all inclined to identify himself.

Without going into a complete examination of the question ... which would probably turn off even those who have stuck with me so far ... I'll simply say that I'm closely acquainted with at least 50 Orthodox Jews who completely "accept" and feel not the slightest tinge of "hate" toward non-orthodox Jews. (Probably closer to 100, but I like to be conservative when I discuss my connection to Orthodoxy.)

So the 'hypothesis' (assumption) implicit in the question is shown to be false. And the 'contributor' who posted it has egg on his face, both of which should be recalled.

Answer 2

The is no singular mindset of Orthodox Jews, and nothing in the religion that requires any singular attitude towards other Jews (other than Leviticus ch.19, Love your fellow). Judaism has many sects and even within those sects there are many different opinions and gray areas. Therefore there may be an orthodox Jew who thinks his religious path is correct and looks down on other Jews. Then there could be another orthodox Jew who thinks that people should mind their own business and it's not his job to judge people for what they do.

Answer 3

The short answer is no, they don't. Jews are commanded to be cordial, helpful, respectful and circumspect in their dealings with Gentiles, and most Jews are careful about this. There are individuals within every ethnic or religious group who are in fact prejudiced, bigoted, and hateful, but it is categorically a teaching of Judaism NOT to be that way.

Judaism, in fact, is a rare case in that it says that you don't even need to be an adherent in order to be considered righteous. (All that you need to do is to follow seven basic laws, which we call the Noahide laws. These are:

1. Recognize the One God, and don't create or worship idols.

2. Do not blaspheme.

3. Do not murder.

4. Do not engage in licentious behavior.

5. Do not steal.

6. Respect other forms of life, specifically by not eating flesh torn from a living animal.

7. Establish courts of justice.)

Answer 4

There may be a few Orthodox Jews that hate Liberal Jews for political or social grievances, but this is an incredibly small minority. Most Orthodox Jews see Liberal Jews as part and parcel of the Jewish community. If anything, they feel disappointment that Liberal Jews have become less stringent in their outlook and religion, not hatred. As a result, many Orthodox Jews take time out of their day to reach out to receptive Liberal Jews with the hope of reacquainting them with their traditions and history. This comes from a place of love and concern, not hatred.