Jews today, as we have done in every generation, question. Some of us are agnostic. Some are atheist, Some are spiritual but unsure of what we believe. Some feel connected to Jewish culture, history, ethics, or family—but not necessarily to prayer, synagogue services, or religious organizations.
You are not alone!
Humanistic Judaism and other cultural Jewish communities create space for Jews to gather, celebrate, learn, and support one another without requiring shared theology or religious observance.
Rabbi Hillel said many generations ago: “Do not separate yourself from the community.” Being part of Jewish community can provide:
Jewish connection can happen in many ways:
Being Jewish can be about peoplehood, culture, memory, values, and community—not only prayer or belief.
You do not need to:
Curiosity is welcome—Questions are welcomed—Skepticism is welcome
We can build meaningful Jewish experiences together:
Humanistic Judaism began in the 1960s through the work of Rabbi Sherwin Wine, who believed that Jewish identity and community could be meaningful even for those who are secular, agnostic, atheist, or questioning. It emphasizes Jewish culture, history, ethics, and human responsibility, while encouraging people to think for themselves and shape Jewish life in ways that are authentic and relevant to modern life.
Today, there are Humanistic Jewish congregations and communities across the United States, Canada, Israel, Europe, Australia, and Latin America. These communities bring people together for holidays, cultural events, social action, and life celebrations - creating meaningful Jewish connection grounded in human values, shared history, and community rather than required beliefs and traditional prayer.