What is ExploringJudaism?
ExploringJudaism is a home for Torah that embraces the beauty and complexity of Judaism, and our personal search for meaning and learning. There is always something to learn and explore.
ExploringJudaism seeks to help people find explainers on subjects they wish to learn more about, practical guides on how to observe Judaism, and reflections on how to make life more meaningful.
Our approach is rooted in Conservative Judaism and in the ideas that Judaism grows with us, that we’re guided by process, and that there is beauty in the balance.
We are learning as we grow.
Judaism is a work in progress, an ever-evolving Tradition. It is hard to imagine that Rabbi Akiva, a rabbi from the first century, could have anticipated Zoom services, virtual hevrutot/study groups, and information on demand. That is part of what we seek, a Judaism that grows as we do.
Prayer Posts
Friday Night Services at Synagogue: An Explainer
Friday night services on Shabbat include both Kabbalat Shabbat, a joyous recitation of psalms, and a Shabbat Maariv, the evening service.
T’fillah/Prayer: A Mitzvah to Take a “Time Out”
T’fillah, Jewish prayer, is rooted in self-judgment, reflection, and connecting to something greater than ourselves.
Luaḥ for Tish’ah Be’av
Luaḥ information for the observance of erev Tish’ah Be’av and the following day generously provided by Rabbi Miles Cohen.
Prayer Expresses Petition, Praise, Anger, and History
Prayer is not just a recitation of words. But rather, prayer is an expression of a great many modes and experiences in Judaism.
Shabbat Morning Services: What to Expect
We thank God, spend time in community, sing heartily, read holy texts, and revel in rest. What can I expect at a Shabbat morning service?
