What is Humanistic Judaism?

Humanistic Judaism is a contemporary Jewish movement that celebrates Jewish life without religious prayer or appeals for divine intervention. It offers a nontheistic alternative to traditional branches of Judaism, combining Jewish cultural heritage with humanist philosophy.

What do Humanistic Jews believe?

Humanistic Jews believe in:

  • Human reason and agency as the primary tools for improving the world
  • The ethical principles of human dignity and the promotion of human happiness
  • Critical thinking and empirical evidence as the basis for understanding life
  • Creating meaningful Jewish experiences free from supernatural authority
  • The value of Jewish culture, history, and traditions interpreted through a humanistic lens

How can Judaism exist without God?

Judaism is understood as the civilization, ethical values, and shared fate of the Jewish people, encompassing a vast body of literature and cultural heritage. Humanistic Judaism recognizes that Jewish identity can be meaningfully expressed through culture, ethics, and community without supernatural beliefs.

How do Humanistic Jews celebrate?

Humanistic Jews:

  • Celebrate Jewish holidays through secular interpretations
  • Create meaningful ceremonies that focus on building community, human experiences and values
  • Use poetry, prose, and music in English, Hebrew, Yiddish, and other Jewish languages
  • Engage in social justice initiatives (tikkun olam) in joyous community
  • Celebrate our heritage through study of Jewish history and culture

How do Humanistic Jews view Jewish texts?

Humanistic Jews recognize the Torah as an historically important text written by human beings. While we appreciate its cultural significance and wisdom, we approach it critically, affirming teachings that align with modern ethical values while rejecting elements that conflict with contemporary humanistic understandings of justice and morality. We approach all Jewish texts with this same loving, critical lens.

Who can be a Humanistic Jew?

Humanistic Judaism welcomes anyone who identifies with the history, culture, and future of the Jewish people. The movement embraces diversity and inclusivity, recognizing that there is no single way to be Jewish. Our congregation includes members who grew up in Jewish households as well as members who did not, single adults and families, people of diverse backgrounds and abilities, interfaith and ”interfaithless” families, and families that look many different ways (single parents, LGBTQ+, chosen families). To learn more about becoming Jewish, which can involve simple self-identification or a more formal process, visit our Life Cycle Ceremonies page.

How does Humanistic Judaism differ from traditional Judaism?

The main differences include:

  • Focus on human reason rather than divine authority
  • Celebration of Jewish life while putting faith in human capability
  • Reinterpretation of traditions through a secular, humanistic lens
  • Emphasis on personal autonomy in Jewish practice and belief

Do I have to be a member of the congregation to attend services or events?

Visitors welcome! Try out our services and events to see if they are a good fit for you. If you plan to participate in an ongoing way, we encourage you to become a member. If you do not plan to participate regularly but want to support our mission, consider making a donation.