Observations and reactions within the Orthodox Jewish community to COVID-19.

Abstract

A window into the lives of Orthodox Jews across the globe indicate that day-to-day reality has changed within the tight-knit community, from the shuttering of synagogues, introduction of remote education and the adaptation of celebrations since the outbreak of COVID-19. The Jewish religious norms and observances were challenged, reconceived and in some cases drastically altered, all while hopeful for the speedy return to the pre-COVID-19 life. Some elements of religious life – whether access to certified kosher food through normal channels and days that had previously been punctuated with communal prayer services – quickly changed to meet the new needs of life with COVID-19. The cohesiveness of a diverse global community highlight a generally tightly woven community that cares for one another and works to provide for the needs of community members in the best and worst circumstances. (from Introduction)