JTA is soliciting readers’ ideas for reversing the tide of Jewish assimilation in America. Here’s today’s featured idea:
The intense, sustained study of core Jewish texts and observance of bedrock Jewish practices remain the taproots that sustain Jewish continuity. These fundamentals are essential to ensuring the continuation of Judaism and Jewry, whether in the United States, Israel or anywhere else.
Since the destruction of our Holy Temple in Jerusalem and the exile from our land some 2,000 years ago, fundamentals like tzedakah, Shabbat, kosher and family purity laws have safeguarded Judaism’s survival.
Those over the millennia who sought Judaism’s destruction often targeted these activities specifically. Now, those seeking to sustain Judaism must promote serious engagement with them. The perpetuation of Judaism requires making it a life priority, with consistent devotion of time, effort and resources.
The guarantors of Judaism’s survival reside in the Jewish home and individual.
Elihu D. Stone
Jerusalem, Israel
Read more ideas for stemming the tide of American Jewish disengagement here.
To share your idea, send an email describing one concrete idea in 200 words or less to jewishfuture@jta.org (include your full name, city, and state or country). Our favorites will be featured online.
