An enduring bond? Jews in the Netherlands and their ties with Judaism
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Abstract
This article is based on two recent studies of Jews in the Netherlands: a randomised survey of 1,036 people and a qualitative study of 30 non-religious, postwar-born Jews. Those with two Jewish parents and a Jewish upbringing were the most likely to exhibit a strong bond with Judaism, especially if they had a Jewish partner. The varied ties that secular, postwar-born Jews felt to Judaism have been deeply influenced by individualism and fragmentation in life. Judaism has become less self-evident for them compared to their parents and grandparents, and has increasingly become a matter of choice, comparable with developments in other ethnic and religious groups. At the same time their bond includes elements that are less uncommitted. Their various ties have different potentials for continuity. Attachments most resembling traditional forms, expressed in observance of Jewish holidays and anchored to social units wider than the family, have the greatest likelihood of continuity. More individualistic forms of Jewish ties, often restricted to personal sentiments and family idiosyncrasies, are the least likely to survive. Rising anti-Semitism and endangerment of Israel may strengthen existing ties.
Topics
Surveys Interviews Jewish Identity Jewish Continuity Intermarriage Main Topic: Identity and Community
Genre
Geographic Coverage
Original Language
Volume/Issue
32(1)
Page Number / Article Number
69-88
Link
Bibliographic Information
An enduring bond? Jews in the Netherlands and their ties with Judaism. 2006: 69-88. https://archive.jpr.org.uk/object-neth12
