Isn't Judaism a religion? Thus, anyone can be Jewish, right? But then why do so many people associate certain physical and personality traits with Jews (e.g. the nose and the money stereotypes)? This would be like associating white, bearded guys with Christianity, when anyone can be Christian.
Thus, my question is: Is Judaism only a religion, or can it be considered an ethnicity (or both)?
2006-08-22 11:13:43 · 6 answers · asked by C. Menstein 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Cultures & Groups ➔ Other - Cultures & Groups
It is both, actually. Nonpracticing Jews that I know still consider themselves Jewish, and it certainly has one heck of a cultural heritage. Still, you can convert to it as well. Pretty interesting thing.
2006-08-22 11:20:39 · answer #1 · answered by angk 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Judaism is a religion and one born to a Jewish mother is a member of that religion. However, because matrilineal descent is biological, there does seem to be an element to "race" (in the genetic sense). But Judaism is NOT a race. People can convert in to Judaism and one would not be able to convert to a race. The stereotypical look only works when your exposure is to Jews from one region. The brown hair, short, big nosed stereotype fails if you are brought up near a Swedish Jewish community (yes, they exist). Because of migrations, exiles and intermarriage (plus the aforesaid conversion) there are Jews of every race.
Now, as to "being Jewish" -- to my mind, that is more than just being a Jew. Being jewish also includes believing what Judaism teaches, enough so that you are a member of the community. If you break certain rules, you are excluded from the community. You are still a Jew, but not Jewish (if that makes any sense).
2006-08-22 11:18:14 · answer #2 · answered by rosends 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Being a Semite includes Most Middle easterners .
Their ethnicity is of dark skin large noses .
Being Jewish is believing in Judaism .The Jewish Bible.
There is only a prophecy of the coming of the Messiah.
Christ was never mentioned.
Any one can be a Jew .Remember Sammy Davis Jr.
He was Black.
2006-08-22 11:22:24 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
judaism is a nationality not a religion
2006-08-22 11:21:56 · answer #4 · answered by Morrie 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
One is a Jew if
(A) His/her mom is Jewish, or
(B) He/she undergoes a kosher conversion process
2006-08-22 15:49:29 · answer #5 · answered by mo mosh 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
it means you are a jew
2006-08-22 11:15:20 · answer #6 · answered by tyler_durden_project 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋