Finding your place in Judaism can be daunting. The traditions, rituals, and laws of Judaism are so vast and diverse that it can feel like there’s no way to find your faith. But that’s where Jewish faith comes from! It’s the reason why you were born, why you live, and why you will one day die to be with God again.
The key to finding your place in Judaism is understanding how you fit into the world of Judaism. This guide by Rabbi Shmuel Waldman will help you discover what a Jewish faith means for you—and if that’s within the Jewish community or not. If you’re looking for something to do with your spare time while also meeting other Jews and understanding more about your religion, look no further than this article!
What is a Jewish faith?
Rabbi Shmuel Waldman has had a diverse career in religious education. He has helped a number of students find their path in Judaism.
According to this Rabbi, finding your place in Judaism is all about finding your Jewish faith. A Jewish faith is the set of core beliefs that make up the Jewish religion. Judaism is the religion of the Jewish people. But the word “faith” doesn’t just have to do with what you believe. It also means how you live your life—your lifestyle. Your Jewish faith defines your Jewish identity, so it’s important that you find your place within it.
Each Jewish faith has its own set of core beliefs, and these beliefs differ between different branches of Judaism. If you’re looking to find your place in Judaism and are unsure of what kind of Judaism you practice, this is important to know. You may be part of a branch of Judaism that practices different traditions than the branch you’ve been practicing in.
Finding Your Jewish Faith: Where to Start?
Shmuel Waldman was a rabbi and teacher for 11 years at the Elementary school, Yeshiva Tiferes Moshe in Queens, NY. He also taught in summer camps over the years leaving his mark on many hundreds of students over a 20-year period. Rabbi Waldman was for a few years in the old Camp Torah Vodaas and Camp Dora Golding as well, having a profound effect imbuing tenets of Judaism to his students with his lectures and through his Sefer.
This Rabbi points out that in order to begin finding your Jewish faith, you should break down your Jewish identity into different components that are essential for finding your place in Judaism.
Who Are You? You are the person who practices Judaism—both the mitzvot, or commands to obey, and the habits, traditions, and practices that make up your Judaism. This unique combination of what you do and who you are will be what defines your Jewish identity.
What Do You Believe? Your Jewish beliefs are what you believe about God, humanity, and all the other concepts in Judaism. These beliefs will help you understand why you practice Judaism and how you fit into the Jewish community.
Where Do You Practice Judaism? Your Jewish practice is the way you practice Judaism—the way that you go to synagogue, how you pray, and so on. This will be where you connect with the Jewish community and get the most out of your Jewish practices.
Conclusion
Finding your place in Judaism is a big step, but it’s also a big opportunity. Judaism is a diverse, unique way of life, and you’ll find your own place by exploring Judaism with curiosity, openness, and a willingness to ask questions. There are many different Jewish practices and beliefs, and you can find your place in any of them. It may take some time, but it’s worth it in the end—you’ll find your Jewish path and make an impact for generations to come.
You can learn more about Judaism at the website of Shmuel Waldman – Wonders of Creation.