Hasidic (or Chasidic) Judaism - Haredi

Hasidic (or Chasidic) Judaism is a conservative branch of Haredi Judaism, which is itself a branch of Orthodox Judaism. Thus, Hasidic Jews are Orthodox, although they differ from Orthodox Jews in some respects. The word Hasidic comes from the Hebrew word chesed, meaning “lovingkindness.” The Hasidim are literally “those who do good deeds for others.” They are known for their separated living, their devotion to a dynastic leader, their exuberant, joyful worship, and their distinctive dress. Hasidic Jews believe that prayer and acts of lovingkindness are means of reaching God. Hasidic philosophy is less ritualistic than other branches of Judaism, and it places a greater emphasis on emotion, warmth, and inclusiveness.