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Judaism without God?

Started by wpaolini, 09/25/2011 10:19PM
Posted 09/25/2011 10:19PM | Edited 09/26/2011 06:49PM Opening Post
Judaism without God? Seriously? Sounds like the sin of the Golden Calf (egel maseikhah) all over again sad



http://www.religionnews.com/index.php?/rnstext/atheist_jews_craft_a_judaism_without_god/

http://www.washingtonpost.com/on-faith/judaism-without-god-yes-say-american-atheists/2011/09/23/gIQAemL9qK_story.html
Posted 09/26/2011 05:54PM #1
Hi Bill,
Interesting situation. They hold to a believe in continuing Jewish tradition regardless of beleif in a diety. This places all the importance on rituals rather than the usual alternate of seeking an understanding of what God is. This could be the oposite of my own persuit.

It's an indirect Golden Calf. When rituals are the only part of religion to hold dear, then in a way, they replaced God. Rather than fashoning an idle to worship (as a diety), they hold to a shell or remnant.

Sort of like stopping at a stop sign, watching the traffic go by and never moving again.
Well, at least they value doing good works. That in itself is a sign they are pursuing something outside themselves.

Very odd story.
Thanks,
Steve
8)

William Paolini said:

Judaism without God? Seriously? Sounds like the sin of the Golden Calf (egel maseikhah) all over again sad



http://www.religionnews.com/index.php?/rnstext/atheist_jews_craft_a_judaism_without_god/
Posted 09/27/2011 04:51AM #2
It's pretty simple, just an acknowledgment that the for one person at least, the important aspects of the religion are cultural and social. If one is an atheist, as Maxim Schrogin seems to be, it does not mean he has to give up his entire heritage and tradition, give up his moral and ethical foundations, life just goes on...

If you suddenly discovered there were no God, would that change your moral and ethical values and behavior, would you feel the need to isolate yourself from your cultural and social identity??

According to the article, 10%-15% of most religions doubt the existence of God but that amount Jews is is much higher, close to half.

This article discussing Mother Teresa's conflict is probably worth a read:

http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1655720,00.html

Jon Isaacs