The Chosen-Comparison of Christianity and Hasidism
In The Chosen by Chaim Potok, the once separate communities of the Hasidic and Orthodox Jews come into close contact with another when two boys of each religion become close friends. While both religions have some practices and customs in common, they are very different in a lot of ways. The Hasidic religion especially has unique customs and practices, some of them strengths and some of them weaknesses. My own religion, Christianity is in some ways similar to Hasidim and in a lot of ways very different.The Hasidic religion is very unique in its nature mostly because of its extreme devoutness. Very few religions have had the fervor of this group. Such practices include keeping the kosher laws, which can be found in the Old Testament. They take this practice so serious, and will not eat at non-Hasidics houses. This can be seen through a conversation between Danny and Reuven. Reuven says to Danny, "You can live with us. No you can't. You won't eat at our house." (257) Hasidics also go through extensive readings of the Talmud on a daily basis. Their outward appearance is even influenced by their religion. They grow out their hair on the sides of their faces right near their ears in curls. They always wear a skullcap and clad shoes,
The bible's commandments influence our daily life. I also was influenced to value friendship in the same way Danny and Reuven did. This can be seen when Reb Saunders wants to meet Reuven. I do think that Christians need to read The Bible more. The Hasidics never have this opportunity, because they are so sheltered from the outside world. I think that one's faith gains its strength when it is compared to a different faith. If we read The Bible half as much as the Hasidics did it would definitely benefit us. Similar to Hasidism we have a day to worship and a book of worship. and they can be seen in a suit and jacket even in everyday activities. This can be shown through Reuven's portrayal of Hasidic teenagers playing baseball. He is Danny's first and only friend who is not of the same religion as him. My own faith has definitely grown as people who held a different set of beliefs surrounded me.
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Acceptance Essays
