Jewish understandings of equality

Jewish Teachings on Equality

The idea of equality is deeply rooted in Jewish thinking, mostly anchored on the premise that all human beings are created “b’tselem Elohim” or in the image of God.
This belief is derived from the Torah - specifically Genesis 1:27, where it’s stated that God created humans in his image.
The Talmud, a significant source of Jewish law, also echoes this notion, proclaiming that all people are descendants of the first human, hence equal in value and dignity.

Equality in Society

While acknowledging the practical differences in roles, Judaism traditionally insists on the fundamental equality and worth of all individuals.
Jewish law or Halakhah covers each aspect of daily life - from eating, prayer, to business ethics - ensuring everyone is treated fairly.
The Torah commands people to love their neighbours as themselves (Leviticus 19:18) and to apply laws equitably, as God is a god of justice.

Attitudes Towards Racial Equality

Jewish teaching and history have cultivated a strong sense of solidarity with downtrodden or marginalised minority groups.
Driving this is the collective memory of Jewish enslavement in Egypt and the message of Exodus, meant to inspire empathy for the oppressed.
Jewish campaigns for racial equality, like those in the Civil Rights Movement in the US, echo these teachings of justice and human dignity.

Equality in Modern Judaism

Different branches of Judaism interpret and enact equality in distinct ways.
Reform and Conservative movements have taken steps towards gender equality, with women rabbis and participation in religious practices that were traditionally male-only.
Orthodox Judaism maintains clearer gender roles, but there is ongoing debate over modernising these practices, reflecting a broader dialogue about equality in religious life.