The pejorative term that often replaces Haredi, denoting a member of a Jewish sect who strictly follows Jewish law and tradition, which are unchanging. Ultra-Orthodox Jews are theologically, politically, and socially conservative, rejecting secular ideologies. They believe that they follow the most authentic expression of Judaism, having been passed down in an unbroken, unaltered chain from Moses himself. Thus, while they can be members of different Jewish branches, they are linked by their unwavering adherence to the Torah.
The term, however, can be used derogatorily to describe extremist, or even fanatic, Jewish groups. See also Hasid, Orthodox Jew.