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How are the Orthodox hashkafas defined?
How are the Orthodox hashkafas defined?

Below are guidelines to understanding the observance categories on JWed.

Miriam avatar
Written by Miriam
Updated over a week ago

We do not use these terms to make judgments about an individual's observance, nor do we encourage categorization of people by "putting them in boxes". Our intention is solely to facilitate searches for a potential spouse; as an individual's religious outlook and practice are essential criteria in determining compatability.

Because these terms may be understood differently across the Jewish world, we encourage singles to search across Hashkafas (Jewish outlooks/observance categories), and focus on objective measurements of observance - such as frequency of prayer, and type of dress.

Modern Orthodox Liberal
These tend to be individuals who are Shabbat and Kosher observant, but have a more "relaxed" or "open" approach to Halacha, sometimes accepting leniencies that are not accepted by those who espouse strict adherence to the dictates of the Halacha. Such individuals may, or may not be involved in regular and consistent Torah learning or prayer, although the general tendency is to be more "relaxed" in these areas as well. A commonality amongst this group is that they are open to secular activities such as bars, clubs, and movies.

Modern Orthodox Machmir
These tend to be individuals who strive to maintain a lifestyle according to the rules and guidelines of Halacha (Jewish law); often this is reflected in greater involvement in daily Torah learning and prayer. However, they are modern in the sense that they are not "Yeshivish" (see the next category) and readily engage in the secular world while leading an Orthodox observant life.

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