“#Jewishjoy.” The phrase has become nearly ubiquitous across the #Jewish communal landscape in recent years. #Hillels, federations, #dayschools, camps and communal organizations regularly invite us to “celebrate Joyful #Judaism,” “amplify Jewish joy,” “spread joyful Judaism” or “be centered around Jewish joy.” It’s easy to understand why. In a post- #Oct7 world marked by heightened #antisemitism, grief, fatigue, polarization and anxiety, joy is a needed corrective to the trauma and pain that, for many, are part of the Jewish experience. Joy reminds us that Judaism is also song, food, friends, dancing and delight.
As a concept and as an experience, Jewish joy is valuable. However, in too many instances, Jewish joy has become both the dominant goal and tool through which we build Jewish life. This unintentionally narrows what Judaism is, who it is for and what counts as meaningful Jewish participation. Alone, Jewish joy isn’t enough.
Here’s why."
https://ejewishphilanthropy.com/im-not-jumping-for-jewish-joy-heres-why/
