Frum unity, frum diversity: The Orthodox continuum in popular culture

• In Event: American Haredi Orthodoxy in Transition

Abstract

Within Orthodox discourse, there is a great deal of discussion about unity in the face of diversity. Nationality, language, and ethnic
origin figure into this conversation, but the most salient area of diversity is the Modern Orthodox to Haredi continuum. This paper
investigates the discourse surrounding this continuum by analyzing several forms of popular cultural production created by and for
Orthodox Jews. These include the Mitzvah Kinder line of toys, a song by Uncle Moishy, Orthodox dating websites, an online video series
called "Verplanck," "A Jewish Star" singing competition, and a contribution to a 2012 video meme called "Shdus Frum Girls Say."

These cultural products present Orthodox Jews as diverse but unified. Featured prominently is the continuum from Modern Orthodox to Haredi
Jews, as well as the distinction between Chassidish and Litvish Jews on the Haredi pole. Gender differences feature prominently, and
individuals' religious backgrounds are also discussed (those who grew up Orthodox vs. ba'alei teshuva [returnees]). In several of the
products, Orthodox diversity is presented as Jewish diversity, as we can see in phrases like "A Jewish Star," "Am Yisroel" (the people of
Israel), and "all types of Jews." However, non-Orthodox Jews are either absent from these cultural products or play only a minor role.
On one dating website, when people register, they must indicate whether they are "shomer Shabbat and kashrut" (uphold the Sabbath and
dietary restrictions). Those who do not check the box are routed to a separate section of the site where they can only search for other
non-Orthodox Jews.

This paper also shows how the Modern Orthodox to Haredi continuum is represented in academic research. The New York Jewish Population Study
and the Survey of American Jewish Language and Identity provide quantitative data regarding differences between Modern Orthodox and
Haredi Jews in family size, name preferences, language, and other dimensions. In addition, ethnographic studies show how individuals
define themselves in contrast to others by referring to this continuum. This analysis increases our understanding of how Orthodox
Jews view themselves and their communal diversity.

author

• Sarah Bunin Benor, Hebrew Union College - Jewish Institute of Religion