What practice helped Jews maintain their identity during exile in the Middle Ages?

Maintaining a distinct cultural and religious identity during periods of exile and diaspora has been crucial for Jewish communities throughout history, particularly in the Middle Ages. Abiding by written law from Mount Sinai refers to the adherence to the Torah and other religious texts that outline Jewish beliefs, practices, and ethical guidelines. This framework provided a constant source of identity and cohesion for Jews, regardless of their geographic location.

As they faced different cultures and societies, these laws not only guided personal and communal behavior but also affirmed their shared heritage, traditions, and values, fostering a sense of unity among members of the Jewish community. In times of oppression and displacement, this commitment to their faith and legal traditions helped preserve their identity, even when external circumstances were challenging.

Engaging in local rituals may have led to some cultural integration but did not specifically support the unique Jewish identity as fundamentally as the adherence to their written laws. Participating in interfaith dialogues could potentially create understanding between communities but might dilute or challenge distinct identities. Establishing trade with neighboring cultures, while beneficial for economic reasons, would generally encourage cultural exchange that could overshadow specific religious practices. Thus, the practice of abiding by the written law from Mount Sinai stands out as the cornerstone for maintaining Jewish identity during exile in the