2. Judaism is an ancient monotheistic religion rich with culture,
history, tradition, and unique customs. Here are some steps on
becoming familiar with Judaism and potentially accepting it as
your religion, whether you're a non-observant Jew or gentile
(non-Jew) who wants to become Jewish.
3. Learn about Judaism
Join a synagogue that matches your level of observance
Learn the Hebrew language
If you want to become a Chasidic or Orthodox Jew,
follow the dietary laws of Kashrut
Know that Orthodox Jews are Shomer Shabbat, which
means keepers of the Sabbath
Celebrate the Jewish holidays
Wear a kippah (skullcap) and a tallit (prayer shawl)
during prayer if you are a man
4. Hasidic: Very strict and conservative, taking the religion upon
themselves in every aspect of life. Incorporate Jewish
mysticism into their teachings.
Orthodox: In general, Orthodox Jews stringently adhere to
all laws and customs of the religion, while Modern Orthodox
Jews typically try to balance a secular lifestyle with that as
well.
Conservative: More lenient in observance than Orthodox
Judaism, but adherent to the basic values and tradition of the
religion.
Reconstructions: Very lenient in observance; pressing a
mostly secular lifestyle.
5. In Orthodox synagogues, men and women sit separately to
avoid "inappropriate" behaviors and distractions, and the
service is mostly in Hebrew. Other synagogues may have
mixed seating and services are in both English and Hebrew.
6. It is not as difficult to comprehend as it may seem, and
knowing even a few special words or certain phrases will help
expand your understanding and appreciation of the prayer of
the religion.
7. This means that only foods that have been prepared
according to the laws of the Torah may be eaten. You can call
your local Orthodox rabbi and ask him to help you "kosher"
your kitchen.
8. The Sabbath starts at sundown every Friday and ends when
there are three stars in the sky on Saturday night. Observe the
Havdalah, the ceremony after the Sabbath. The Sabbath
doesn't allow work, travel, carrying money, discussing
business, using electricity, lighting a fire, and making and
receiving phone calls, but is cherished for its relaxing, spiritual
separation from the busy workweek.
9. The stricter in observance you are, the more holidays you will
take on to celebrate or commemorate. Some of the major
Jewish holidays include Rosh Hashanah ,Yom Kippur, Sukkot,
Simchat Torah, Hanukkah, Tu B'Shevat, Purim, Celebrate
Passover, Lag b'Omer, Shavuot, Tisha B'Av, and Rosh
Chodesh.
10. Orthodox Jewish men wear "tzitzit“ and wear "tefillin“ during
morning prayers, except on Shabbat and holidays.
Observant women dress modestly and married women wear
headscarves or wigs.
11. Aryeh Goodman is a Jewish religious teacher who
provide the help in program development and
Chassidic teachings in East Brunswick.