Classical Reform

There is a very interesting article in this week's issue of the JC (Jewish Chronicle) about a group of American Reform rabbis who want to move back towards 'Classical Reform' that is little ritual, almost no Hebrew Organ music, an emphasis or rationality, 'the eternal truths of Divine monotheism. This group is, apparently unhappy about the increase in "God talk' in American Reform as well as more interest in ritual and indeed halakhah. For those of you who know me, or have been reading my blog, will know that this is an area that I am looking at as part of my thesis. There has been an increase in interest in ritual in nearly all parts of the Non-Orthodox world, and even in the Orthodox world.

Speaking personally I like more ritual it adds meaning, and I like God to be part of my Judaism. Otherwise there is very little point. I think that this group is on the losing side anyway, anyone who is keen enough to do Jewish will want some substance to it. And any one who isn't isn't. Anyway i need to go as Hanukah candles need to be lit before Shabbat comes in.

And if anyone is wondering why i am Reform (albeit of the British type) it is because although I want ritual and substance I also want inclusiveness and egalitarianism. There I think that this post should have upset just about everybody. Chag Samech hanukah and shabbat shalom.