Orthodox Jew Explores Reform Judaism for a Week, Shares Insights

A Montreal-born writer, known by the pseudonym Bagel Emoji, recently immersed himself in the world of Reform Judaism for one week. This exploration aimed to challenge preconceived notions about the movement often held within certain Orthodox circles. His firsthand experience, shared in an essay titled “I spent a week as a Reform Jew, and this is what happened,” provides insights into the practices and culture of a Reform synagogue.

Many Orthodox Jews perceive Reform Judaism as aligned with progressive ideologies, often associating it with movements that are far-left or focused on social justice. To understand this denomination better, Bagel Emoji, who identifies as gay and currently resides in Los Angeles, sought to experience Reform Judaism personally. His week-long journey served as a way to debunk myths and shed light on the realities of life within a Reform community.

Throughout his essay, Bagel Emoji adopts a comedic lens, highlighting aspects of Reform services that may seem ordinary to regular attendees but are strikingly different from Orthodox practices. He notes the prevalence of singing during services, the use of pink tallits, and the demographic characteristics of congregants, many of whom are older. These details allow readers to appreciate the unique culture that exists within Reform synagogues.

In a discussion with host Phoebe Maltz Bovy on the podcast The Jewish Angle, Bagel Emoji elaborates on his experiences and what he learned during the week. His insights are complemented by the production and editing work of Michael Fraiman. The episode captures the humor and earnestness of his exploration, presenting a balanced view of what it means to be part of a Reform community.

This exploration not only offers a personal narrative but also serves as a reminder of the diversity within Jewish practices. By stepping outside his own beliefs, Bagel Emoji encourages dialogue and understanding between different Jewish denominations. His essay and podcast appearance contribute to ongoing discussions about identity, tradition, and community in the modern world.

As the conversation around religious practices continues to evolve, stories like Bagel Emoji’s provide valuable perspectives. By bridging the gap between Orthodox and Reform Judaism, he fosters a greater understanding of the complexities within the Jewish community, inviting others to reconsider their assumptions and engage with differing viewpoints.

For those interested in learning more about his experiences, the full discussion can be accessed on The Jewish Angle, where Bagel Emoji shares his reflections and observations from his transformative week.