Definition

1. Noun:
   • A member of a conservative sect of Orthodox Judaism: A Haredi is an adherent of any of several strictly observant Jewish communities that emphasize traditional religious study and practice, often characterized by distinct dress and a separation from broader secular society.
   • Pertaining to ultra-Orthodox Judaism: The term describes the collective identity, beliefs, or lifestyle of these groups, which typically reject many aspects of modern secular culture.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The neighborhood is predominantly inhabited by Haredim.
  • His Haredi upbringing emphasized daily Torah study above all else.
  • The Haredi community maintains its own schools and social institutions.

Advanced Usage

• "Haredi Judaism": Refers to the collective movement or religious approach itself.
  • Haredi Judaism is noted for its stringent interpretation of Jewish law.
• Used as an attributive noun (functioning like an adjective) to describe related concepts.
  • They follow Haredi customs regarding dress and media consumption.

Variants and Related Words

• Haredim (noun, plural): The plural form, commonly used to refer to members of these communities collectively.
• Haredi Judaism (noun phrase): The broader religious movement or sector.
• Ultra-Orthodox Judaism (noun phrase): A frequently used synonym for Haredi Judaism.

Synonyms

• Ultra-Orthodox Jew: A common synonym emphasizing the strict adherence to tradition.
• Torah Jew: A term sometimes used within these communities to highlight the central role of Torah study.

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically denotes groups that often maintain a stance of cultural separation and may not recognize the religious authority of the modern State of Israel, though they may live within it. It is distinct from Modern Orthodox Judaism, which generally seeks greater engagement with secular society and culture.

Noun

1. any of several sects of Orthodox Judaism that reject modern secular culture and many of whom do not recognize the spiritual authority of the modern state of Israel