Universal Jewish Literacy

Key Findings:

In this op-ed, the author points out the lack of Jewish literacy amongst Jews in the diaspora, particularly within the American Jewish community. He suggests a Jewish Literacy project to help adult Jews properly engage with their heritage, creating a more informed community over time. 

The author criticizes the concept of Jewish identity amongst American Jews, stating that is not specific enough, and dangerously replaces the need for Jewish education and literacy. He points out that in the past, Jews had a significant level of understanding of their Judaism through education, a concept that is currently lacking. 

The author states, “Just as Jews have a “birthright” to the Land of Israel, they also have a birthright to their culture and their multifaceted heritage.” He suggests a solution by introducing a literacy program with a 20 year timeline, consisting of adults participating in 100 hours of Jewish studies. The studies will include six pillars of Jewish wisdom – rituals, texts, history, culture, philosophy, and Zionism. The goal is to deepen adult Jews’ understanding of their Judaism, and introduce them to a meaningful manner of engaging with it. 

This can be done through a number of different kinds of programs, including trips and educational courses. The author compares this suggested literacy project with the likes of “Birthright Israel”, a very well-subsidized organization that allows access to anyone who is interested in participating. 

The author then discusses the challenges with successfully lifting the Jewish literacy project off the ground, the main one being the commitment level of the participants. He also suggests strong ideas for how to create the infrastructure of the project, rewarding participants, utilizing the help of Jewish communities and educators across America.