My Dad's side was Jewish, but my Mother doesn't want me to celebrate the holidays.. Should I anyways?

Question

I think Jewish holidays are wonderful, and I am proud of our heritage!

Answer 1

I think everyone should learn and practice all their culture and heritage.

I am English, Irish, Black Dutch, and Native American... Sadly my family has let our culture slide. I have to try to peice together my families past. If you let it go eventually culture will be lost. How can you know where you are going if you don't know where you came from? Culture is so beautiful. Sadly, someday will we all just be one big boring mass. At least I hope not.

The last thing you want is to forget your past and have to learn it from someone else who will only distort it.

Answer 2

in the Reform Jewish tradition, Jewishness IS passed by either parent- in COnservative and Orthodox tradition it's still only through the mother. But, whatever... if YOU want to celebrate Jewish holidays and if they come to have meaning to YOU, then do it! If you do decide that being Jewish is for you, you actually already ARE if you choose to follow Reform tradition, but you will have to convert with an Orthodox or Conservative rabbi if that's the path that calls you. Good luck and Chag sameach!

Answer 3

Technically, Jewish lineage is passed through the mother. However, one should be free to practice whatever religion they want. Jewish holy days are so full of meaning and tradition, and with very few exceptions, not commercialized.

Answer 4

Why doesn't your mother want you to celebrate? Is it spite toward her ex? If so, you need to calmly explain to her that while you love and cherish her, he IS your father, and this IS part of your culture, and you want to honor that. Is it because she is a Christian and wants you to celebrate Christmas? If so, remind her that Jesus was a Jew, and how better to learn about Christian traditions than to learn about how "The Man" himself lived?. Also, there is no reason you shouldn't be able to celebrate both holidays.

Answer 5

Well first off I don't understand why your mother would oppose you learning about such a wonderful tradition. Especially when she had a child with someone of that tradition.
If it interests you, sure, try to celebrate them. Just be aware that should you later decide to adapt Judaism, you will need to convert under an orthodox Rabbi, since Judaism is passed matrilineally. In the meantime, enjoy!

Answer 6

I'm sorry to inform you, contrary to popular opinion, since your mother isn't Jewish, you're not either. Even if your father is, the "Jewishness" is passed on from the mother's side. So you have no obligation to keep them. Your father should celebrate them, but you and your mother don't have to.

Answer 7

If your father was Jewish, then you are too. You have the right to celebrate the holidays as your ancestors did. But, one of the 10 Commandments (from the Hebrew bible) is that we should honor our mother and father so you will have to find a way to honor your mother and have your celebrations. Speak to your mother about your wishes in an respectful and mature way. If she will not acquiesce, you may have to wait until you are on your own to openly celebrate the Jewish holidays. I wish you the best of luck.

Answer 8

You don't say what your mother would prefer you celebrate, if anything.

Chanukkah is a celebration that the christian writings report that Jesus celebrated by going up to Jerusalem for the Festival of Lights. (The rededication of the Mishkan occurred about 160 years before Jesus' birth).

So, if it was good enough for Jesus, no christian should be keeping you from its celebration. Chanukkah Sameach!

Answer 9

Why not. Its a great Holiday. It promoted enlightened, freedom and happiness.

Maybe your mother's family are afraid that you want to convert or something of the sort. Just tell your family that you want to embrace all corners of your culture!!!

Answer 10

Do what YOU want to do. Celebrate the religion you want to follow. Let your mother do what she wants. Happy holidays.