Many studies seek to create clarity concerning the question of whether “being Jewish” refers to an ethnic, religious or cultural identity. While some studies provide arguments for only one of the options, it is clear it is difficult to arrive at a conclusion whereby one accepts one option and disapproves the other two at the same time (Levinas, 2007). “Being Jewish” can be used as a religious, ethnic and cultural. However, this discussion does not include people who have been formally converted to Judaism.
“ Being Jewish” as a Religious identity
Many of the people who identify themselves as being Jews practice Judaism, which is a religion developed among ancient Hebrews and involves a belief in one transcendent being who showed himself to Abraham, Moses, and other Hebrew prophets (Levinas, 2007). Also, being a Jew means living a religious life in line with the Scriptures and rabbinic traditions. Thus, “being Jewish” is considered to be a religious identity, whereby the Jewish faith is monotheistic and ritualistic.
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“ Being Jewish” as an Cultural Identity
For the purpose of this paper, culture is defined as the social behavior and norms that can be seen in a particular human society. While the Judaist religion is considered to be part of the Jewish culture, it is not the only component (Levinas, 2007). The Jewish culture is wide enough to cover customs, non-religious rituals, visual and performing arts, historical preservation, and popular culture. These elements tend to set the Jewish people apart from other human societies.
“ Being Jewish” as an Ethnic Identity
Ethnicity can be described as a group of people sharing ancestry, language, or culture. By the simple fact that Jewish people have a common religion, that is Judaism, and culture, they qualify to be referred to as an ethnic group (Levinas, 2007). Additionally, Jews all over the world share a common ancestry, tracing back to the biblical Abraham.
Reference
Levinas, E. (2007). Jewish identity revisited. Psychoanalytic Dialogues , 17 (2), 197-217.
