You know, I'm getting sick of Reform Jews not being called 'real Jews.' I converted to Reform Judaism. I consider myself a Jew and stand with all Jews - Orthodox, Conservative, or Reform.
The Reform Rabbi with whom I studied kept the Sabbath, kept kosher in his home so every Jew would feel welcome, and tref food was not served on the synagogue grounds.
I keep the Jewish holidays in my home, light the Chanukah candles and often light Sabbath candles and keep the Sabbath. I don't eat forbidden foods during Passover. I don't have a 'Chanukah bush' or other Christmas decorations. I have a library of Jewish books and read and studied for over a year before my conversion - and this doesn't include the years I read about Judaism but was too afraid to go into a temple and approach a Rabbi.
I do this as the only Jew in my family, with no one to support me, and the only practicing Jew of the Jewish academics I work with - the only one who didn't go to work on Yom Kippur.
I'm a Jew.
If you have time (now or later), would you be able to explain the differences between Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox Judaism? Just so that we non-Jews have an idea. Thanks!
Please explain in some detail what you mean when you say the Rabbi kept the Sabbath and kosher. I have some good friends who re-converted to Judaism when they realized that the Reform conversion practice, administered by Rabbis who reject the most fundamental tenets of the Torah, is problematic, at best.
A Jew is correctly defined as someone born of a Jewish mother or a person who converts to Judaism halachically-meaning in strict accordance with the laws and regulations of the Torah. It is admirable and proper for all Jews (and all good people of conscience and decency) to stand together. But we have to be very accurate and careful in defining authentic Judaism and Jews since thousands of years of heritage is riding on it.
You sound like a very sincere person and I strongly encourage you to look up an Orthodox Rabbi in your area to discuss your status. There is so much more for you to gain from your strong Jewish drive when you are introduced to true Torah Judaism.
I wish you well.
Gee that's nice. I know a lot of "Christians" that go to church on Sunday and try to help the poor etc. etc. They just have never accepted the Christ as their savior. Therefore, no matter what they think they are, they are not Christians in the real sense. Possibly this fits you in your religion???