Orthodox Judaism is strictest
form of Judaism. Orthodoxy collectively considers itself the only true heir to the Jewish tradition. Most of Orthodoxy considers all other Jewish movements to be unacceptable deviations from tradition. The belief that the Torah and its pertaining laws are Divine. Orthodox Judaism's central belief is that the Torah, including both the Written Law and the Oral Law, was given directly from God to Moses and can never be altered or rejected in any way. Resultantly, all Jews are required to live in accordance with the commandments and Jewish law. In Orthodox Jewish thought, religious observance encompasses a broad spectrum of areas including but not limited to observance of the Sabbath and dietary laws, contemplation, social interaction, personal development, business practice and charity. The role of women in Orthodox Jewish life is very complex. These general components of the role of the Jewish woman are constant throughout history: Jewish law does not regulate every detail of life, but provides a basic structure within which each person may express his or her own personality. In Orthodox prayer services, men and women are separated by a curtain or low wall, with only men allowed to lead services and read or bless the Torah. Women are exempt from many mitzvot (commandments) and cannot become rabbis. In some Orthodox communities, women do not study Talmud. In the area of education, women were traditionally exempted and often discouraged from any study beyond a understanding of the practical aspects of Torah, and the rules necessary in running a Jewish household. Many Orthodox synagogues do not allow a woman to become the president of a congregation, or to discuss the Bible in public. One of the more annoying aspects of Jewish law is th ...