Introduction to Judaism

Introduction to Judaism is an engaging multi-session course for anyone interested in exploring Jewish life.

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people reading books

Introduction to Judaism is an engaging multi-session course for anyone interested in exploring Jewish life.

In this class, you will explore a modern take on Jewish life, engage with Jewish values, celebrations, and spirituality, and ask questions to discover multiple perspectives.

Open to all, this course is designed for you, whether you are part of a Jewish+ or interfaith couple, an adult raising Jewish children, a spiritual seeker, considering conversion, or a Jew who wants a meaningful adult learning experience.

Wherever you are on your journey with Judaism, this class is designed to be a safe and welcoming place for you to explore. Our programs affirm people from all backgrounds and are LGBTQIA+-friendly. Topics covered include holidays, life cycle celebrations, core beliefs, prayer, the Bible and other sacred texts, history, antisemitism and the Holocaust, Israel, the North American Jewish experience, and the diversity of the Jewish people today.

Hosted by a local Reform (URJ) congregation, Introduction to Judaism courses meet in-person or online. Classes reflect the open and inclusive approach of Reform Judaism and are taught by Reform rabbis, cantors, and Jewish educators. Experienced faculty encourage students to raise questions and engage deeply. Many communities offer tuition discounts for those who would otherwise be unable to attend.

Questions? Contact learning@urj.org.

Support for Introduction to Judaism is provided by the National Center to Encourage Judaism (NCEJ).

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URJ and Reform congregations provide classes to help you explore and understand Judaism. Use the location search below to find a congregation near you, or view a list of all classes →

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Not finding a class near you? The Union for Reform Judaism offers an Introduction to Judaism online course for people who reside where URJ (Reform) congregational courses are not available. Learn more.