The Faces Behind 'JewBook': An Exploration of Online Jewish Community
Date
2024
Authors
Enkin Lewis, Sunny
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Victoria
Abstract
'This research explores perspectives on online Jewish communities through interviews with active participants in online Jewish spaces. The use of the internet as a platform for building community is controversial and within the Jewish community, there are distinct concerns about religious restrictions and sustaining in person institutions. Lockdowns and social distancing restrictions due to COVID-19 forced many communities to turn to online platforms which renewed interest in digital religion as a topic of study. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with three users and facilitators of online Jewish spaces. The strength of relationships that are built through online platforms was emphasized by all participants. Participants' opinions varied on how online communities compare to in person; however a theme emerged of the interconnectedness of online and in person Jewish communities. This research provides insights into how participants are able to connect to Jewish community through virtual platforms.
Description
Keywords
online, community, religion, Judaism