The Jewish tradition is both universal and particularistic. The popular aspects of Judaism speak of Tikun Olam, repair of the world and Ohr La’Goyim, being a beacon unto the nations. However, less popular in modern secular culture is the fact that Judaism is and must also be particularistic. Otherwise, why bother having a distinctive Jewish way of life? Every Saturday night, Jews conclude the Shabbat by mentioning the boundaries between Shabbat and the other days of the week, between light and dark, and between the people of Israel and the other nations. In a matter of days, when Jews celebrate Passover, we recount the story of the Exodus, based on the words “You shall tell your child,” meaning the Jewish child. Many of the Passover rituals and customs are intended for the Jewish identity formation of the child.  When we open the Book of Leviticus at this time of year, we read about different kinds of boundaries in Jewish life, from the foods we eat, to the people we can marry, etc. The fact of the matter is that much of Judaism is about distinctions, boundaries, and parameters.

It is understood that while all may enter a synagogue, membership is intended for Jewish families based on denominational definitions. It is understood that Jewish parochial schools are for Jewish students. It is understood that Jewish youth groups and Jewish value based Summer camps are likewise intended for Jewish youngsters. The same can be said for houses of worship, parochial schools, and religious youth groups of other faiths. In all of these instances, the target audience is the adherent of the particular faith group.

The Young Judaea camp organization is not defined as a secular  sports camp. It is a Jewish values camp, which addresses issue of Jewish faith, Jewish identity, commitment to  Israel, the Jewish people worldwide, and Jewish pride. With these principles as the goals of the camp, it is easy to understand that the officially registered students of the camp must be Jewish. Such a camp should not be construed in secular terms.  There are many opportunities offered by the Jewish community for multi-faith participation. But when it comes to the inculcation of particularistic values, ideals, and principles, distinctive faith and cultural groups must be respected to work with its adherents.

Rabbi Howard Morrison

Senior Rabbi

Beth Emeth Bais Yehuda Synagogue

USCJ and USY

Dear  Congregational Family,

As many of you may know from this week's CJN and elsewhere, the international body of USY modified its language and standards regarding eligibility to serve as a teenage executive officer. In essence, the old policy said USY leaders should refrain from dating that might be construed as interdating. The new policy says USY leaders should strive to make healthy Jewish dating choices, including the recognition of the importance of dating Jews and treating all people in the image of God. The reaction has been mixed from praise to condemnation to mixed feelings. As one local colleague remarked with diplomacy and nuance, the sensitive issue is where does one draw the delicate balance between building bridges and borders, to which I agree. While  Beth Emeth is no longer affiliated with USCJ and its teenage organization, USY, the undercurrent issues that led to the front page news are relevant to all synagogues, youth groups, and families.      
                                                 
This Shabbat, we begin to read Sefer Shmot, the book of Exodus. We read about the formation of our people. We learn how Moses confronted being born as a Hebrew while being raised in the Egyptian palace. I encourage us to confront the challenges of how we are raising our children. While there are no guarantees, and one day grown children will make their own choices, we are obligated to be role models as parents, leaders, and as a synagogue.                  

Rabbi Howard Morrison