From Rebellion to Regression: The Concept of Jewish Nationality in the Development of Reform Judaism

Abstract

Reform Judaism is the result of Judaic reform movement in late Middle Ages. In order to adapt Judaism to modern society some Jewish thinkers and the pioneers tried to reform traditional laws, customs and disciplines, hoping that Jews with Judaism belief could enter modern secular lives and be adopted by various social groups. Though the reform movement in Judaism was born with tribulations, it still attracted many followers because it responded to their need. The reform movement originated in
Europe and popularized in the United States, and in there four influential platforms were issued. This essay aims at introducing the contents of the four platforms and probe into the changes in themes in the context of historical background.