Adopting Humanistic Judaism – William’s Story

I’ve spent 20 years studying Judaism and other religions, but it wasn’t until recently I came across SHJ and it totally took me by storm. I have read all I could find and watched many videos from Rabbis Wine and Jerris (and others) and I would like to be a Humanistic Jew because SHJ is the only organization that makes sense to me and is what I have been looking for much of my life.

I often felt I was Jewish for many reasons and over the years I had many Jewish friends who encouraged me, but each time I pursued conversion my interactions with rabbis left me feeling I wanted no part of such a religion. They were cold and gave me the impression they were intolerant and arrogant despite my Jewish friends being completely opposite. Given what I learned about SHJ they share my values related to science, reason and community.

I’m not religious but for reasons I can’t totally explain I have always been pulled toward the Jewish people and its culture. I’m so happy to have found the SHJ and look forward to learning more about Jewish culture and humanism.

Selecting my Name

I have chosen the name: Ze’ev Melech.  I selected this name based on my first and middle name (William Robert) and a nod to my mother’s family who came from Eastern Europe and my admiration for those who step up to lead people.

Ze’ev In Hebrew means Wolf. In Yiddish it is Wulf which is also used for William.

Melech, meaning King in Hebrew represents leadership, which also are qualities for the name William.