The latest statistics point to a decline in the overall proportion of North American Jews who belong to or attend synagogues—a pattern especially pronounced if one excludes the Orthodox. Moreover, writes Martin Lockshin, the evidence suggests that various efforts to make synagogues more attractive and dynamic are doing little to stem the tide. These efforts include everything from incorporating musical instruments and lively tunes into services, to welcoming homosexuals and performing intermarriages, to allowing non-Jews to join congregations. At the same time, Reform and Conservative rabbis, and some Orthodox ones, have put ever-greater emphasis on progressive politics, under the rubric of tikkun olam. Lockshin argues that not only have such attempts to revitalize Judaism failed, but they may even be counterproductive:
Rabbis often avoid telling their congregants that Judaism demands anything specifically Jewish of them. . . . In many synagogues, one specific political ideology reigns, and a congregant who does not share that ideology feels uncomfortable. When synagogues do mention Jews’ “obligations,” often they are to causes that are not specifically Jewish. . . . Many rabbis report adjusting what they preach about. Some hesitate to talk about God. Twenty percent of rabbis fear “some kind of sanction or retribution from their congregants for voicing their honest opinions about Israel.”
In a culture that values autonomy, synagogues often promote Judaism as a way to reach personal fulfilment and add meaning to life. . . . It’s hard to be optimistic about the current approach of synagogues as a long-term strategy. Jews whose Judaism consists primarily of advocating for gay rights and fighting against gun violence and human trafficking are likely to discover that these causes can be more effectively promoted outside the synagogue. Even Jews who go to a synagogue because they like the music or meditation it offers are likely to discover that moving music, even spiritual music, may be more easily found outside of synagogues.
What synagogues have to offer that cannot be found anywhere else is instruction and exhortation on living a Jewish life. When they emphasize core Jewish values, they create a sense of solidarity, community, and even exclusivity that cannot be rivaled. When they discuss Jewish texts and teachings, they get people to consider their own values and behavior and maybe even try to improve their lives. Some of that still goes on in every synagogue, but perhaps it’s time to make it more front and center.
Read more on Canadian Jewish News: https://www.cjnews.com/culture/books-and-authors/lockshin-rabbis-and-synagogues-should-stick-to-their-strengths