Judaism

Judaism is an ancient religion that is rich with traditions, including contemplative practice. In this section you will find links to websites, articles and videos that contain information about this multi-faceted religion including history, philosophy, beliefs, rituals and more. Explore and enjoy!

Basic Judaism

    • What is Judaism?
      A personal overview of the Jewish religion by Laura Ellen Shulman, Assistant Professor of Religion at Northern Virginia Community College.
    • MyJewishLearning.com
      MyJewishLearning.com offers articles and resources on all aspects of Judaism and Jewish life. The site is geared toward anyone searching for a better understanding of Jewish culture.
    • Welcome to Judaism 101!
      Judaism 101 is an online encyclopedia of Judaism covering Jewish beliefs, people, places, things, language, scripture, holidays, practices and customs.
    • Jewish Virtual Library
      A page containing links to a broad range of topics about Judaism – including history, concepts, holidays and festivals, Jewish art, food music, philosophy and rituals.
    • Judaism
      A comprehensive Wikipedia article about the Jewish religion with links to further information.
    • Judaism
      A BBC site containing links about various aspects of Judaism.

    Contemplative Judaism

      • Institute for Jewish Spirituality
        This Institute offers transformative, contemplative programs and spiritual retreats that investigate mindfulness, meditation, prayer, yoga, and Torah study.
      • Contemplative Judaism
        An overview of contemplative Judaism by Rabbi Rachel Cowan, Director of the Institute for Jewish Spirituality.

      Judaism and Buddhism

        • Judaism, Meditation and The B-Word
          An article from the Jewish Daily Forward by Jay Michaelson about the intermingling of Jewish and Buddhist traditions.
        • Buddhism and Judaism
          An article by Jacquetta Gomes, founder of the Buddhist Group of Kendal, a Theravada Buddhist group in the Lake District, U.K., about “JuBu’s,” Jewish practitioners who have embraced Buddhism.

        Kabbalah

        • Kabbalah and Jewish Mysticism
          An explanation about Kabbalah, the mystical branch of Judaism.
        • Kabbalah
          The website of the Bnei Baruch Kabbalah Education & Research Institute containing information about the nature of Kabbalah, and seeking to clear up commonly associated myths and misconceptions.
        • Kabbalah – Five Basic Principles
          A video featuring award-winning author William Simon interviewing Dr. Michael Laitman, who explains the five basic principles of Kabbalah.
        • What is Kabbalah?
          Kabbalah Centre International website, featuring information about Kabbalah, including history and core beliefs.