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Because such terms are inappropriate, and usually reflect a lack of knowledge about the group in question:
"Ultra-Orthodox". This term, when used properly, refers to the most carefully and detailed observant among the Orthodox, and who go to great lengths to keep away from most of Western culture. It arose as a reaction to the "Neologue" movement in 19th century Hungary, an extremely limp attempt at Reform (today they'd be called modern Orthodox, but such fine gradations didn't exist then).
In practice, the term is usually used as a disparaging synonym for Orthodox or Chassidic. What passes for an unremarkable level of observance is inaccurately elevated into a form of "fanaticism". Many people outside the Orthodox community mistakenly identify those who wear Chassidic garb (long black coats, earlocks for men, wigs/kerchiefs for women) as "ultra-Orthodox." In fact, the Chassidic groups are no more or less observant than other Orthodox groups who do not dress so distinctively.
The term "Chareidi" (literally: "trembling" as in "trembling in awe of HaKadosh Baruch Hu (the Holy One Praised by he).") tends to refer to the same people as described by "Ultra-Orthodox" but is more acceptable. It hasn't caught on in the U.S. yet.
"Reformed Judaism". The correct term for the Liberal/Progressive Branch of Judaism is "Reform Judaism", not "ReformED Judaism". "Reformed" implies that the adherents used to be Jews, but they learned and are now something else (e.g., early Christians were "Reformed" Jews). "Reform", on the other hand, indicates a belief in the ability to change (i.e., "Reform") the practices while still remaining Jews.
"Humanist Judaism". The correct term for Rabbi Sherwin Wine's movement is "Humanistic Judaism", not "Humanist Judaism". "Humanist", similar to "Buddhist", designates an adherent of a specific non-Jewish religion. "Humanistic Judaism" is a non-theistic branch of Judaism, based on a humanistic interpretation and application of Jewish traditions.
The FAQ is a collection of documents that is an attempt to answer questions that are continually asked on the soc.culture.jewish family of newsgroups. It was written by cooperating laypeople from the various Judaic movements. You should not make any assumption as to accuracy and/or authoritativeness of the answers provided herein. In all cases, it is always best to consult a competent authority--your local rabbi is a good place to start.
Hopefully, the FAQ will provide the answer to your questions. If it doesn't, please drop Email to questions@scjfaq.org. The FAQ maintainer will endeavor to direct your query to an appropriate individual that can answer it. If you would like to be part of the group to which the maintainer directs questions, please drop a note to the FAQ maintainer at maintainer@scjfaq.org.
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© (c) 1993-2004
Daniel P. Faigin <maintainer@scjfaq.org>