How do you feel about the trend of celebrities converting to Judaism and interest in Kabbala recently?

Question

I was wondering how Jewish people felt about this, as it is my understanding that unlike Christianity for example, there is quite a bit of preparation one must undergo to convert to Judaism, and that celebrities and their trends can be exploitative at times. I had the understanding that studying Kabbalah was granted from prayer and fasting and obeying Jewish laws, and was reserved for those men most devout and pious, not red strings and bottled water. I hope I am not offending anyone, I really want to get the view from some Jewish people about how this looks to you. Does it bother you? Do they look silly to you? Do you feel that it is exploiting your beliefs and background? Please let me know. I appreciate your responses, and hope to learn much from you all. Thank you, L'Chaim and Shalom.

Answer 1

I think many of the celebrities who practice Kaballah look very silly. And on some level, I find it very offensive that people are trying to exploit religion to satiate their own greedy desires. To me, the Kaballah that many celebrities practice seems to be just another Hollywood fad than a thoughtful and respectful handling of a serious religious philosophy. It cheapens the religion (as if one's religiosity could be qualified in terms of dollars and cents). I have no problem if people chose to convert to Judaism, but I would hope that they would do it for reasons that are right for them and not because they want to be part of the latest Hollywood fad.

Answer 2

As a jewish man, I can say that the Kabbalah Center -- infamous for their embracing (and sometimes exploiting) celebrities -- is not what I, or other "traditional jews" would consider appropriate for true Kabbalistic study. This particular branch of Kabbalah is often referred to as "Crapballah." Or less derogatory, "Kabbalah-Lite."

While some of the principles presented via the Kabbalah Center -- ran by Rabbi Philip Berg -- is, in fact, based upon true Kabbalistic ideas, it is not necessarily true Kabbalah. It has a much more New Age flavor to it.

Now, having said this, the question begs asking, "Is there anything wrong, per se, with what they teach at the Kabbalah Center?" In my opinion, no, there is not. Judaism, like many other religions advances, evolves, and changes with time. Not everything that might have been appropriate or relevant 100 or even 1,000 years ago is necessarily relevant to today's day and age. Perhaps their "watered-down" interpretation is sufficient. Perhaps not. For example, tradition holds that only men over the age of 40, who have extensive knowledge of the Torah were allowed to study Kabbalah out of fear of missuse. Today, we've come to the understanding that it, along with Torah, the Talmud, and the Zohar have benefits to everyone (men, women, children, all the world).

Basically, what I am trying to say is that while it is not within the confines of "tradition," there should be no reason to exclaim that it is a lesser form of study.

To really learn more about "traditional" Kabbalah, try searching on the www.aish.com website.

As far as celebrity endorsement or inclusion is concerned, my opinion is that if these celebrities actually acquire something life-enriching from their expereinces with Kabbalah (whether traditional or contemporary) then all the better.

Not every person will seek the same path. But all paths eventually intersect at some point. The way we pack for the journey is not as important as the journey itself

Answer 3

I incredibly have some acquaintances that converted a pair of years decrease back and their daughter converted basically some months in the past. i will think of of 8 individuals that have converted in the final couple of years on the Conservative synagogue that I attend and a minimum of one which i'm conscious of on the Reform synagogue in the comparable city. Its greater easy than Christians might pick to have self belief. i grew to become into raised Christian in an area the place there are actually not any Jews to speak of and had by no potential heard of anybody changing to Judaism till some years in the past, from a Christian point of view that is not logical and its basically not some thing this is spoke of . Its one ingredient for a Christian to "backslide", Christians can clarify that extremely easy yet its yet another tale whilst somebody who grew to become into Christian embraces a various faith.

Answer 4

I'm not jewish, although I respect thier philsophy greatly. Its my opinion that any persuit of faith however lightly or experimentally is a positive thing; if for nothing else as it breeds acceptance and tolerance of foreign thoughts and ideas. No one person or group can lay a claim on a religion it defies the purpose of religion which is to believe in something larger then yourself. In which case a decision of one's faith is not a public means to judge. (like as were want to do anyway)

I don't think a short stint in the spotlight could damage a faith thats already endured so much, and in the end may only serve to bring them more peace.

Answer 5

Couldn't care less if I actually tried.
Celebrities whose only goal is to be a celebrity (because they have limited talent) did not get enough attention off mummy and daddy. That's why they want attention now. Anyone who gives them that attention can manipulate them.
I thought everyone knew this.
Why do you think all cults go to California, easy pickings. I'm not anti-California, if you build a major highway you've got to expect some roadkill.

Answer 6

Washed up celebs just trying to re-inject life into their sad existences and push the possibility of furthering their careers

Answer 7

I think it is just a "trendy" new thing for them. When the new wears off, or when too many others start to do it, they'll move on to the next "hot" thing.

Answer 8

Fashion only. The chefs are making money out of it

Answer 9

just trying to get attention

Answer 10

I think that its what the media calls it. A "mystical religion". These to me are cults, and very pagan (sorry to be so harsh on them).