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Conservative Judaism

Some things we learn from experience, others we learn from books. Those who grew up in the Conservative Movement can recognize a Conservative way of doing things instinctively. Even so, such people would do well to transform their informal knowledge of Conservative Judaism into a more formal, thought-out awareness of its principles and practice. Only then can the various aspects of the Movement truly make sense, and only then can Conservative Jews plan for the future with understanding, intelligence, hindsight, and foresight. Others have come to the Conservative Movement later in life. For such people, the books below will explain much about Conservative Judaism so that they can understand it as they make their own way into Conservative Jewish affiliation, discussion, and action.

A. Primer

Elliot N. Dorff, Conservative Judaism: Our Ancestors to Our Descendants (United Synagogue, 1996). A clear introduction to the history and theory of the Conservative Movement, with chapters on its approach to Jewish practice and belief and the challenges and opportunities it now confronts.

B. History

C. Ideology

Robert Gordis, editor, Emet v’Emunah: Statement of Principles of Conservative Judaism (United Synagogue Book Service, 1988). The first and only official statement of Conservative Jewish beliefs. Study guides for teenagers and adults are also available.

D. Jewish Law

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