Why Be Jewish? (YBY?) is an innovative congregation-wide initiative of Washington Hebrew Congregation that began during the fall of 2007. Jewish identity is an essential part of the Judaic studies curriculum in our school and for our families.

The YBY? project will help further enhance our students’ Jewish identity, helping them and their families to discuss and to share with each other what is so great about being Jewish. This program is not designed to engage in comparative religion, but rather looks to enhance one’s Jewish identity, helping students feel good about being Jewish. The question is not, “Why is it better to be Jewish than…” but rather

“What makes being Jewish feel so good?”

Our Religious school, one of the best in the country, does a great job of teaching our children HOW to be Jewish. We explore what it means to be Jewish in the modern world and equip our students with tools needed to make Jewish choices and to lead a Jewish life. But it has become glaringly obvious that the central question of Jewish education, the “how,” although still valid is no longer the fundamental question for the Jews of the 21st century. We are facing this new challenge.

The reality of today is that every Jew who chooses to walk into the synagogue is a “Jew by choice.” The term that was used exclusively for people converting to Judaism, can now be applied to all of us. And if this is so, then the main question for our generation is no longer “How?” but “Why be Jewish?” Does this question resonate with you? Does it make you uncomfortable? Is it hard to answer? If the answer to any of the above is ‘yes’ then it is the right question to ask. Learning and growth occur when intellectual discomfort is overcome through a process of answering important questions.

For many generations of Jews, anti-Semitism, Israel and the Holocaust were the key elements in shaping the Jewish identity. The sense of belonging was further enhanced by negative experiences, often helping to foster a positive Jewish identity “by negation,” or in spite of the hate and hardship.

In the days of Jewish globalization, we try to face the life challenges from more individualistic positions. The new generation is asking, “Why should I be Jewish? How does Judaism influence my life?” For this generation, we need to go beyond the external forces. We need to help foster the excitement, confidence and pride of being Jewish. Answering this tough question will help us continue to make the right choice.

How would YOU answer the question...I love being Jewish because…

Please contact Rabbi Farbman and Olga Markus
 with your responses and ideas on this question at
whybejewish@whctemple.org