What is Jewish humanism? Are there obligations?
Obligation and Jewish humanism may seem a little contradictory. Jewish humanists tend to be free thinkers and the idea of being “obligated” to a certain creed doesn’t necessarily jive.
Mitzvot means “commandments” and traditionally practicing Jews feel it’s their duty to follow them. While we do not feel obligated to follow Halacha (Jewish law) or any particular interpretation of Jewish texts as a more traditional Jewish person might, I do feel we have certain obligations. To me, living as a Jewish humanist means living with intentionality. Each individual person is obligated to live ethically, give back to the world and seek out the ways most meaning to them to live Jewishly. Personally, I get a lot out of studying Jewish texts and I hope that I’ve passed along some of that to the congregation. So in presenting my ideas on Jewish obligation, I naturally thought of the number 10.
Be thoughtful about your Judaism and how you want to celebrate it.
Recognize that you have a unique gift to make a difference in our world and use it for good. And respect others for their unique contributions.
Be a lifelong learner of Jewish texts, culture, history and traditions. While you might not find meaning or agree with every aspect of Jewish tradition, strive to find what’s meaningful in it for you.
Be a teacher in word and deed. Pass Judaism onto the next generation.
Find yourself a Jewish community and become involved.
Commit to inclusion and equality regardless of gender, background, race, nationality, age or ability.
Respect people of different backgrounds and perspectives and strive to understand their outlook. Be curious about the beautiful diversity of human thought.
Live ethically because it is a Jewish humanist obligation.
Honor our planet and live in such a way to preserve it for future generations.
Speak out against intolerance, injustice and greed.
Bonus 11th – Be a mensch!
