One of the most talked about books in the Jewish community when it originally appeared, Remix Judaism: Preserving Tradition in a Diverse World offers an eloquent and thoughtful new vision for all Jews seeking a sense of belonging in a changing world, regardless of their current level of observance. Roberta Kwall sets out a process of selection, rejection, and modification of rituals that allow for a focus on Jewish tradition rather than on the technicalities of Jewish law. Her goal is not to sell her own religious practices to readers but, rather, to encourage them to find their own personal meaning in Judaism outside the dictates of Commandment, by broadening their understanding of how law, culture and tradition fit together. She inspires readers to be intentional and mindful about the space they allocate for these elements in defining their individual Jewish journeys and identities. The paperback edition includes a new preface addressing the critical response the book received and further explores the challenges of practicing Judaism today.
Roberta Rosenthal Kwall is the Raymond P. Niro Professor at DePaul University College of Law. She earned her JD from the University of Pennsylvania, an MA in Jewish Studies and a BA in American Studies and Religion. Kwall is the author of The Myth of the Cultural Jew: Culture and Law in Jewish Tradition (OUP, 2015) and The Soul of Creativity (Stanford UP, 2010). Her OpEds and articles on topics of relevance to the Jewish community have appeared in The Chicago Tribune, JTA, Commentary, The Forward, The Jewish Journal, The Jewish Week and Jewish Philanthropy.
. . . a helpful and innovative framework for those thinking about how American Judaism can survive and flourish. [Kwall] succeeds from the off at achieving her stated goal of introducing the "teachings and practices of the Jewish tradition in a way that comports with the sensibilities of Jews who are not, and likely never will be, observant by conventional measures." Articulating her reasoned approach to what she's dubbed "remix Judaism," Kwall insists on proactive development of Jewish rituals that can be observed consistently, even if those rituals differ from traditional observance.-- "Publishers Weekly" . . .a celebration of Jewish life and culture, chock full of practical advice about tapping into Jewish traditions and values to enrich our lives and relationships . . . Whatever your level of Jewish identity and observance, Remix Judaism overflows with fresh, inspirational advice.-- "JUF News" [an] important new book . . . Remix Judaism offers one path toward remixing and renewing the beautiful, ancient, and marvelous ritual that keeps us and our children Jews, and in so doing, enhances the meaning and splendor of our lives.-- "The Jerusalem Report" [Kwall's] previous book, The Myth of the Cultural Jew, argues for the symbiosis between halakha--Jewish law--and the cultures inhabited by Jewish communities. Remix Judaism brings together these interests, builds on the idea that Jewish practice is influenced by the ambient culture, and analyzes the extent of that influence.-- "COMMENTARY" As thoughtful and thought-provoking as it is inspired and inspiring, 'Remix Judaism' is an exceptionally well written, organized and presented study that will prove to be an enduringly popular and appreciated contribution to the growing body of Contemporary Judaic Studies literature.-- "Midwest Book Review" Everyone knows that Jewish life in America is changing, but can American Jews take control of that change? In Remix Judaism, Roberta Kwall lays out a way to think about Jewish identity and practice that embraces all Jews, and encourages American Jews to remix their tradition with care, thought, and an eye towards sustainable transmission for future generations. Packed with religious insights, recent studies, and concrete suggestions, Kwall has produced a book for anybody interested in the future of Judaism in America.--Shira Telushkin, author of "Thou Shalt" Jewish advice column, Tablet Magazine In her insightful book professor Roberta Kwall offers a challenge to the world wide Jewish community and especially the liberal community in North America. Citing example after example she offers a path for all those who want to make their Judaism meaningful. Steeped in modern Jewish sociology, survey studies, personal interviews, and stories from the field, Kwall demonstrates that a Jewish tradition which is open to personal meaning, flexibility, and innovation can make a difference even in the lives of those who may not feel impelled by its legal structure. Kwall has produced a book which will challenge Jewish clergy, educators and thought leaders even as it challenges those who want to find their path in Judaism through their own practice. It is a book worth reading and thinking about and for that we should be thankful for the insights of the author and the passion with which they are expressed.--Rabbi Vernon Kurtz, Rabbi Emeritus North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, past president American Zionist Movement, past president international Rabbinical Assembly In Remix Judaism Roberta Kwall puts forward a convincing case for liberal Jews holding tight to certain Jewish rituals and traditions even as they seek a Judaism flexible and meaningful enough to transmit to their children. It's what every synagogue tries to do, but her book aims to reach those Jews who don't hear the message because they're not in the pews. It's an important message for our community, at this critical time.--Sue Fishkoff, editor of J. The Jewish News of Northern California and author, "The Rebbe's Army: Inside the World of Chabad-Lubavitch" and "Kosher Nation: Why More and More of America's Food Answers to a Higher Authority" In Remix Judaism, Kwall makes the case that Judaism is an aspirational tradition where diversity and disagreement can simultaneously be a tremendous challenge and our greatest strength. Kwall's writings always challenge my thinking through her combination of meticulous research, well-crafted arguments, copious references to traditional and modern Jewish sources, and fidelity to Jewish tradition. For a person who cares about the future of Judaism, this book presents a tremendous opportunity to take a journey with Kwall and think deeply about what it means to care about Judaism in this generation and generations to come.--Rabbi Joshua Rabin, senior director of synagogue leadership, United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ) In Remix Judaism, Roberta Kwall presents a lovingly-constructed portrait of postmodern, post-denominational Judaism in North America. Her extensive research is studded with touching, insightful anecdotes that will delight and inspire, inviting the reader into self-reflection and into dialogue with the tradition. Kwall's thoughtful examination of the foundational pillars of Jewish life, and the diverse ways in which they are "remixed" by Jews today, brings her audience into a new appreciation for the multifaceted, multivalent nature of modern Jewish life. This marvelous book will provide Kwall's diverse audience with a joyful affirmation of the way in which today's diverse "remix Judaism" provides for heightened meaning in one's life.--Rabbi Oren J. Hayon, Congregation Emanu El, Houston, Texas In Remix Judaism: Preserving Tradition in a Diverse World, Roberta Kwall draws nimbly and intelligently from the wellsprings of Jewish tradition and practice so as to allow American Jews to forge a Judaism that is both meaningful and authentic. Kwall is a keen observer of the contemporary Jewish scene, and she offers a clear program for modern Jewish life that has the capacity to address and motivate individuals and community. Her creative and rooted vision of Judaism is both exciting and inspiring. Remix Judaism will deservedly garner a wide readership!--Rabbi David Ellenson, Chancellor Emeritus of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion; Professor Emeritus of Near Eastern and Judaic Studies at Brandeis University Kwall is at her best in discussing creative marriage practices. The Shabbat chapter offers multiple accounts of "remixed" ways families observe the Sabbath: one family drives some distance Friday nights to share Shabbat dinner together during dad's break, since he cannot get off to join the family at home. Other chapters discuss food, education and bar/bat mitzvahs, grandparents, Tikkun Olam, and mourning. Kwall argues that the Jewish community should embrace these remixed practices as authentic ways of inculcating Judaism . . . Kwall's book should resonate with readers familiar with modern Jewish life, yet also be accessible to others, especially to those in ethnic or religious groups facing similar issues and to students in religious studies courses interested in contemporary hybrid observances."-- "Choice" Kwall lovingly interweaves her personal Jewish journey with the unique stories of fellow travelers. The result: a more expansive and inclusive understanding of Jewish culture. Whether you agree or disagree with Remix Judaism's premise, you'll be inspired by Kwall's use of Jewish culture as a springboard for intergenerational discussion.--Hayim Herring, author of Connecting Generations: Bridging the Boomer, Gen X, and Millennial Divide Kwall's Remix Judaism is not a Judaism of pick-and-choose, but a Judaism of "go out and observe what the people are doing and act accordingly" (Talmud Bavli, Berakhot 45a). It recognizes that individual and familial practices vary widely, but calls for meeting people where they are and encouraging them to build on their practices by starting with what is already most meaningful about Jewish life to them and expanding outward. - Contemporary Jewry-- "Contemporary Jewry" Lucidly and engagingly written, Roberta Rosenthal Kwall's Remix Judaism is a must-read for Jews and other "willing listeners" seeking to deepen their connection to Judaism in ways other than through traditional Jewish legal observance. Emphasizing "tradition" rather than "law," Kwall advocates a "remix" strategy of personal choice of rituals and traditions rooted in the normative Jewish legal tradition that are infused with personal meaning and practiced consistently. Blending personal narratives and a scholar's perspective, Kwall illustrates "remixes" of Shabbat, Jewish food traditions, marriage, children's education and b'nei mitzvah, grandparenting, mourning, and tikkun olam. Kwall's emphasis on the importance of Jewish education, the joyful, thoughtful, and consistent appropriation of Jewish traditions, and the contemporary need to balance the normative Jewish legal tradition with a search for personal meaning makes Remix Judaism an indispensable starting-point for all those seeking a rich, meaningful Jewish life outside the scope of traditional Jewish legal observance.--Alyssa M. Gray, professor of codes and responsa literature, Emily S. and Rabbi Bernard H. Mehlman Chair in Rabbinics, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion One of the most beautiful and compelling truths about Judaism is that it evolves and keeps pace with modernity. Roberta Rosenthal Kwall's book is a timely contribution to this generation's search. This book captures the wonder of Jewish traditions and makes them assessable to all who are searching.--Rabbi Karyn D. Kedar, author of The Bridge to Forgiveness, Stories and Prayers for Finding God and Restoring Wholeness; Congregation BJBE, Deerfield, Illinois Professor Kwall, one of the prominent scholars of modern American Jewry, wrote Remix Judaism as a follow-up to The Myth of the Cultural Jew. Her new book touches the lives of so many of us who live in a non-Orthodox world yet strive to maintain a strong connection to our Judaism. With over 34 years in a pulpit, I have dealt with congregants of all ages and backgrounds who have been dealing with the issues identified by Kwall. Her diverse sources are masterfully woven into the fabric of her narrative. There is no question in my mind that this work will be a guiding light to so many of us. If I could, I would make Remix Judaism required reading for all non-Orthodox Jews.--Rabbi Chuck Diamond, Former Rabbi of the Tree of Life - Or L'Simcha, Pittsburgh, PA Remix Judaism does a fantastic job of drawing on Jewish text and real-life anecdotes to help people who really want to build Jewish community see multiple ways to do it. Roberta's love of Jewish tradition, of creativity and Jewish peoplehood, shines through the chapters of this book. Whether one considers oneself observant or secular, atheist or believer, Remix Judaism ultimately helps the reader envision a colorful and diverse Jewish future that transcends denominations and mines the gold at the heart of Jewish tradition.--Rabbi Lizzi Heydemann, Mishkan, Chicago, Illinois Remix Judaism is a critically important work. In a world where young people face unprecedented alienation and breakdown of meaning, Jewish living has so much to offer. But with so many young Jews distant from their heritage, it must be presented in ways that resonate and meet them where they are. Professor Kwall understands these opportunities and challenges and her book serves as a guide on how to access and make meaningful our sacred resources of wisdom, culture and spirituality.--Rabbi Ari Hart, Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob Synagogue Remix Judaism is a must-read for Jews of all levels of observance. It creates the space for such an important discussion on how we can, and are, preserving the most vital aspects of Jewish tradition for generations to come.-- "Carrie Seleman, Decalogue Tablets" Remix Judaism is a sourcebook of great Jewish ideas and a guidebook for living Jewishly in the 21st century. Robertal Kwall manages to be both descriptive and perscriptive, charting a path for how Jewish living can thrive in contemporary society. This is not a book for the future; this is a vital book for right now.--Rabbi Avi Finegold, founder, The Jewish Learning Lab Remix Judaism is a thought-provoking book filled with justification, stories, and ways to lead an assimilated lifestyle while being intentional about your Judaism. It encourages an individualistic approach to what Judaism means to you as an individual, couple, or family at any stage in your life and how to pass your tradition and culture on to those around you. As a millennial Jewish summer camp professional who works with the next generation of the Jewish people, I believe Kwall's remix Judaism is the direction my campers should embody as they begin their own journeys to discovering their Jewish identities.--Gabrielle Gordon, assistant director, Camp Young Judaea Midwest Remix Judaism sets out to enable the reader to find meaning in and create an authentic Jewish life. Responding to recent research on trends in the American Jewish community, Kwall recognizes the realities of 21st century life and offers ways in which Judaism may provide guidance, relevance, and insight for living in these times. Kwall believes in the preservation of the religious and cultural traditions of Judaism and at the same time strives to make Judaism accessible, opening doorways into Jewish practice and exploration in an empowering way.--Rabbi Dr. Laura Novak Winer, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion Remix Judaism shows the diversity of opportunities for engagement in Jewish life that exists today. . . . Kwall's book brings plenty of material to a book club discussion [and] has the potential to encourage conversations in families and among close friends . . . a remarkably accurate snapshot of where American Jews find themselves right now.-- "Jewish Book Council" Remix Judaism, a beautifully written and deeply personal book, rooted in both wisdom and scholarship, deserves the wide readership that its author hopes to find.-- "Jewish Journal" Roberta Kwall grapples with the challenges and opportunities of an open and diverse society to offer pathways for engagement and deepened connection to Judaism for cultural and secular Jews.--Rabbi Deborah Waxman, president, Reconstructing Judaism Roberta Kwall provides a new way to be Jewish in America! The book's "remixed" approach to contemporary Judaism means developing practical paths that are based in historical traditions. For anyone interested in the vibrancy of the Jewish community and religion, this book provides critical grounds for thought--and action.--Naomi Cahn, Harold H. Green Professor, George Washington University Law School Roberta Kwall's informative and passionate new book melds some of the most meaningful Jewish customs and traditions with modern societal values and sensitivities. Her book provides enjoyable ways to preserve Jewish culture, in such areas as Shabbat and holidays, life cycle events, the roles of parents and grandparents, tikkun olam and much more. So many of the things we do on a day to day basis present opportunities to infuse them with Judaism, thus making them more meaningful and enjoyable. This book is a great guide to accomplishing that.--Mark Trencher, president, Nishma Research Roberta Rosenthal Kwall's work reveals a deep examination of the unfolding nature of Jewish tradition in modernity, especially here in America. Kwall's analysis proves relevant for people in all stages of life. Her unique background allows her the ability to craft explanations that make this a great resource for those who are new to the Jewish tradition as well as those for whom the Jewish tradition is familiar territory.--Rabbi Nolan Lebovitz Lebovitz, Adat Shalom, Los Angeles, California Through numerous examples Kwall teaches that non-Orthodox Judaism can be flexible enough to embrace the Jew throughout their lives, nurturing them at every step, sustaining them with a rich sense of heritage . . . Remix Judaism gives us permission to connect to Jewish life and traditions on our own terms and to see our experience as an authentic and meaningful expression of Jewish life.-- "CCAR Journal: The Reform Jewish Quarterly" When I chose a Jewish life, I was hungry for anything that could tell me exactly what I was signing up for. Judaism is ancient and traditional, but it is also dynamic and ever-adaptable. Bobbi Kwall has written the book I needed then, and what a joy to read it now and remind myself of the breadth of Jewish life and ingenuity.--Al Rosenberg, director of strategy and communication, OneTable Writing with much sympathy and in an accessible, non-doctrinaire style about the complexities of living as an active Jew in contemporary America, Roberta Kwall has set herself the task of encouraging the broad spectrum of non-Orthodox Jews to give Judaism a second look because she is convinced their lives will be enriched immeasurably through the teachings and practices of their ancestors. Remix Judaism extends an invitation to all Jews to engage with the ever-evolving, millennial-old Jewish tradition.--Jack Wertheimer, professor of American Jewish History, Jewish Theological Seminary
