judaism?

iVillage Member
Registered: 09-10-2003
judaism?
6
Sun, 01-07-2007 - 9:42pm
Hi. I've tried many paths. The Wiccan path was right for me for a long time, but, now, I'm no longer satisfied. I was drawn to traddition, but want something more conventional.
My father was a Jewish atheist, so, we were raised with an appreciation of the cultural heritage, but only exposed to the religion through extended family holidays. My daughter age nine says she'll only go to spiritual activities if they have activities for kids, and I thought the temple's Hebrew School looked like something she might like. I'll call them in the morning, to ask for information, but, I think it might be right for me, because of it's certain mystical aspects, and, they seem to be very accepting. Any thoughts about Reform? A couple of my friends go, and really like it.
I've been Christian denominations, but, found it punitive and repressive, personally, though it seems to work beautifully for others. Buddhism was a little better, but, I wanted structure and studdy. I'm an artist, singer, actress, writer, unconventional, and introspective. I really want this family to have a spiritual outlet, we gave up our Unity membership a couple years ago, because that particular branch just seemed getting stale. Blessings to you, and thanks for letting me try and figure out my faith.
Amie
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
In reply to: ijadedgirl
Sun, 01-07-2007 - 11:18pm

iVillage Member
Registered: 09-10-2003
In reply to: ijadedgirl
Sun, 01-07-2007 - 11:36pm
Hi, Ginger, I visit the cinigogue and talk to the rabi this week. No, actually, the polytheism was the hardist thing for me to accept about the pagan path, and, I was drawn to it for it's inclusiveness, but, I think there are other ways of doing that. A lot of the pagans I know have values that are less tradditional than mine, and, I think that the love of nature, animals, and our fellow creatures, are tenants of many faiths.
It's sad, to move on, but, I'm changing a lot. I'm much more family oriented, would like to maybe get married again, someday, I guess getting older, I'll be 35 this summer, has quelled a certain rebellious streak, or need to prove something, by being as out there as I could, though, I got lots from the pagan meditation and ceremony. I now wonder if I was not even subconsciously trying to make a statement to my parents about their hatred for organized religion. My father was raised Jewish, and, since we're close, I will speak to him about what caused him to dislike it, and not want us raised that way.
I also think I needed to embrace my female sexuality, and, now, that acceptance is also done. I feel empty and lost, but hope to find a spark somewhere.
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
In reply to: ijadedgirl
Mon, 01-08-2007 - 11:13am

Ah... the polytheism is something I can't really wrap my head around either.

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-09-2001
In reply to: ijadedgirl
Mon, 01-08-2007 - 1:50pm

I think our spiritual needs can change over time. I, myself, am an Eclectic Wiccan and my DD (an adult now) and I have followed a solitary path for many years. Recently I felt a need for a sense of community, and being able to work with a group of people on social justice issues, and to connect with in sacred space. Through other Pagans posting about their experiences with the Unitarian Universalist Church, I decided to check it out. ;) I have found a nearby UU church whose people I enjoy, and who are welcoming, and giving me an opportunity for that sense of community and purpose. Additionally, there is a Pagan Circle of members who celebrate the Sabbats through the year, taking turns in the leadership and planning. So, I currently have the best of both worlds. I don't have to give up my belief in the Lady and Lord, and my religious beliefs, which I was unwilling to do in any case, yet I am finding the community and connection I sorely missed.

Blessings on your journey as a Seeker, that you find what you need. :)

Gypsy
)O(



Blessings,

Gypsy

)O(



iVillage Member
Registered: 01-16-2006
In reply to: ijadedgirl
Thu, 01-11-2007 - 3:24pm

There's something inside of me that really responds to Judaism. I have found Judaism to be a very welcoming faith and one that focuses on deeds and actions. To me, it's a religion of self-responsibility and truly does urge people to live their best life everyday. Forget TEN commandments; Judaism has 613! The hardest part about delving into the Jewish faith for me is the language barrier. I don't speak Hebrew, and even in Reform congregations, there's lots of Hebrew. (Although if it's any consolation, I've heard that a great many Jews who can recite the Hebrew in service may not know exactly what they're saying.) And the service guides do provide what are called "transliterations." So you don't have to be able to READ Hebrew to speak it. They'll spell out "Shema Yisrael Adonai Eloheinu, Adonai Echad" ("Hear Oh Israel, Adonai our God, Adonai is One"). So you can often follow along fairly easily in the prayers.

One aspect about Judaism that is hard for some to adjust to is the fact that Saturday is the Sabbath, not Sunday. And the Sabbath actually begins Friday night at sundown.

If you're interested in reading more about Judaism, a great book to start with is by Rabbi Harold Kushner and is called "To Life!"

 

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
In reply to: ijadedgirl
Thu, 01-11-2007 - 3:55pm