Is this odd or usual for a converted Jew?

Question

I know someone who has a Jewish heritage, but his family converted from Judaism ages ago, before he was even born. But they still gave him a Jewish name, had him circumcised, and they don't eat ham, bacon, pork or shellfish, although they they don't follow a kosher diet in any other way.

I"m not saying there's anything wrong with this, but I was wondering if it is normal to sometimes cling to some Jewish traditions after converting?

I mean, I know some Christians convert to Judaism, but still celebrate Christmas in a modified way, so is it the same deal?

I hardly ever do this, but all the answers were so good that I can't choose just one, and will have to put it to a public vote.

Thank you everyone for your intelligent answers!

Answer 1

i think it is easier to convert to another religion than it is to convert to a new way of life
this seems to be the case here where they are holding on to family traditions
i think this is fine
i am not christian but still hang on to some of the traditions of my family
and also it isnt only Jews who get circumcised or have special diets

Answer 2

Most Jews who choose to convert do not follow Jewish traditions, so you are right about thid being odd.
According to Judaism, being Jewish is a spiritual essence one does not lose even if she or he converts to another religion.
Thus, according to Jewish law, if a person has a Jewish mother she or he is Jewish no matter what they believe and follow.

Answer 3

I don't think I know anyone whose Jewish, but I think it seems plausible. I mean, way back when Christianity was gaining root in the Roman Empire, and a couple centuries after that, pagan traditions became intermingled with Christianity and gave birth to many of our modern holidays (You really think that Jesus was born on December 25?) Anyhow, it's normal for people to do that.

Answer 4

Judaism is both a religion and an ethnic group.You may not believe in the religion of Judaism but still live your life in the Jewish ways and traditions.

Answer 5

seems like they probably have a guilt complex because they converted out. sort of like christians who want to convert to judaism have a hard time giving up jesus without feeling guilty, probably lots of jews who convert out have a hard time letting go of the commandments without feeling guilty, especially if they were raised religious

Answer 6

Sure. Consider it part of heritage, instead of religious belief. My great-grandmother and grandmother still practice some old Choctaw practices my great great grandma taught them, just for the sake of remebering where they come from.

Answer 7

just like family traditions, youre so used to it but when new people are introduced to the family parties, youre like huh? traditions stay on for a long time unless your yel for it to stop and itll stop at the next generation