Adult Learning
A core mission of the IISHJ is to provide adult learning opportunities in Jewish history and culture, Humanistic philosophy and values, and personal growth. These resources are available for online, individualized learning as well as professional continuing education and discussion groups. If you would like more personalized recommendations for your own learning journey, please contact us at info@iishj.org.
Humanistic Judaism views the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) as an anthology reflecting the early stages of Jewish life and expression. It is a rich source of ancient wisdom and storytelling written by human authors and is subject to scrutiny and evaluation through modern tools of biblical scholarship.
Humanism is an approach to life that emphasizes human freedom, power, knowledge and responsibility to define and live a meaningful life. Inspiration, ethics, and living a good life are lessons learned from the human experience.
Humanistic Judaism affirms that Jewish culture thrives where Jews are able to live free and unimpeded. Many Humanistic Jews find inspiration and connection in the rich history and multifaceted culture of the State of Israel, though they also grapple with its conflicts internal and external.
Judaism encompasses the rich and diverse cultures and ethnicities of the Jewish people. This includes a range of religious and secular traditions expressed through ever-evolving arts, musics, literatures, foods, fashions, and other creative modes.
Jewish history is the collective and individual experience of the Jewish people across millennia and geographies. From a Humanistic Jewish perspective, the unfolding events and contributions of modern times are no less important than those of ancient times.
Humanistic Judaism recognizes the pluralistic nature of Jewish ideas, backgrounds, and identities. This includes the reality that self-affirming Jews may have complex identities that include other ethnicities and heritages.
Jewish life comprises an array of intersecting factors and forces, from family and community, to stories and spirituality, to antisemitism and resilience. Although Jewish populations are amazingly diverse, they share in a historical continuum reaching back to biblical times.
Secular Humanistic Judaism is a nontheistic alternative in contemporary Jewish life. Humanistic Jews celebrate holidays and lifecycle events without religious prayer or appeals for divine intervention, instead focusing on themselves and humanity more broadly as the best vehicles for improving the world.
You can experience some examples of our adult learning programs on this video playlist covering various topics relevant to Secular Humanistic Judaism, Jewish culture and history, and the human condition.
