In an effort to become less isolated from their non-Jewish communities, Reform Jews in the 19th century

• A. eased kosher restrictions
• B. rejected all rabbinic authority
• C. maintained strict dietary laws
• D. adopted Christian dietary practices

Answer: (A)

Reform Judaism in the 19th century sought to fit into modern, pluralistic society by reinterpreting and relaxing practices that kept Jews distinct from their neighbors. A concrete expression of this approach was easing dietary restrictions, such as kosher laws, which made everyday social life—like sharing meals with non-Jewish friends and colleagues—less constrained by ritual boundaries. This shift reflected a broader aim to preserve Jewish identity through ethics and community while adapting outward practices to the realities of modern life. The other options don’t fit that pattern: strict dietary laws remained characteristic of more traditional approaches, rejecting rabbinic authority wasn’t the Reform stance (they pursued reform without wholesale rejection of rabbinic leadership), and adopting Christian dietary practices would be a departure from Jewish identity rather than an integration strategy.