Prof. Lawrence H. Schiffman

The Definition of the Problem

The problem of Jewish unity and disunity is not a new one. In fact, it is one which runs like a constant motif throughout biblical period, the Hellenistic age, medieval and modern times. As the Jewish community in America faces the breakup of old alliances and new challenges, it is only fitting that we follow the advice of the Book of Deuteronomy: “Go and inquire of days gone by” (Deut. 4:32). We shall therefore devote this study to an account of a variety of sectarian controversies and their effects, specifically asking why certain controversies result in total separation of a group from the Jewish people, while others seem to be tolerated. We will investigate four specific disputes, those of the Samaritans, the sects of the Second Temple period, the early Jewish Christians, and the Karaites.

In  each case, our central concern will be to  discover the litmus test of Jewish unity.  We will see that it is the permissibility  of marriage with other Jews.  Put simply:   Whenever a group takes issue with the accepted criteria for Jewish identity, the mainstream of the Jewish people eventually… Continue reading →