Just wanted to start some dialogue...
I have been studying some basics about Judaism, and I wondered if anyone had any input / experiences about issues dealing with a dual Black American/Jewish identity. If you have converted, what were the reactions from your family and friends? Are holidays a little awkward? Just wondering what people had to say...
2006-07-02 16:53:23 · 8 answers · asked by nacsilver85 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
In our Temple we have a conversion group that meets regularly. They share experiences they've had with family, holidays, etc.
You may decide not to convert, but you'll still be welcome in the community. You'll love what they have to teach; the more you study, the more you'll feel part of the community.
Attend a Torah study and find out how Jews read the "Old Testament."
Being black is totally irrelevant. Judaism is not a race. Some say it's not a religion, but it is definitely a nation.
2006-07-02 18:07:52 · answer #1 · answered by Hatikvah 7 · 9⤊ 2⤋
There is a large population of black Jews in both Israel and Ethiopia. As a Jew I can say that the Jewish faith is built on ideas of acceptance. A Jew is a Jew is a Jew. Race,creed or gender does not matter. Also, I have had experience with many black Jews. My roommate is black and going through an Orthodox conversion. It is a very difficult thing to do. Traditionally you must be turned away three times before they will accept you for study. This is to ensure that you are serious. My friend has been to many services with me and my friends, he even goes on his own. He is very accepted by all sects of Judaism. We are not a discriminatory people we pride ourselves on the fact that we are diverse. Also, the family of my friend is very accepting to his choice. They are not a family that put much emphasis on religion so it was not a problem.
2006-07-03 00:12:38 · answer #2 · answered by larry j 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have a friend in Yeshiva who is 1/2 black and converted (a few times)
He is proud of both of his heritages and I dont think he would trade it for anything in the world.
its true being black and Jewish in America is unique, but that dose not mean that you will not be fully accepted in the Jewish community.
2006-07-03 06:56:33 · answer #3 · answered by Gamla Joe 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Did you know that there were probably many black Jewish? Think about it, when the Jewish had to flee from Israel, many migrated South into Africa, for instance, Ethiopia. Also, King Solomon's wife (I think they married) was Queen of Sheba, hence, she was most likely black. Her son, Menelik, was Solomon's son. Solomon was Jewish. I believe that there are many black Jewish people, some may not even know their heritage.
2006-07-03 00:06:15 · answer #4 · answered by Gardener for God(dmd) 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Theres a group of black jews who claim to be the true israelites.
2006-07-03 00:00:43 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'd be surprised if they let you convert / accept you. There are black Jews by blood though.
2006-07-03 00:00:44 · answer #6 · answered by Nerdly Stud 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm not speaking from a knowledgeable perspective but, I didn't think you could convert in to that religion.
Dude, did you think about the briss?????? Chop, Chop, man!!!!
2006-07-03 00:00:17 · answer #7 · answered by tczubernat 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sammy Davis jr. never had any problems.
2006-07-03 00:01:09 · answer #8 · answered by oldman 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋