Hanna Griff-Sleven (New School, NY NY)
The Covid-19 pandemic has challenged Jewish traditional life and forced people to create different ways of participating in religious practice. With restrictions on gatherings, Jewish traditions were transformed. Thousands of Jews worldwide observed Passover by video-sharing their seder tables and festive meals with family members and loved ones – some just around the block, others, towns, cities, and countries away. People also observed High Holiday Services online. There have been Zoom weddings, funerals, and brit milot. My presentation examines how Jewish traditional culture evoved and how quickly many Jews adapted to technology as well as the challenges more observant Jews experienced.
Part of 05-12 Contemporary Jewish Folklore: Re-Thinking Community Practices and Identity, Friday, October 14, 10:30 am–12:30 pm