Do You Need to Believe in God to be Jewish?

This Contemporary Conversations in Jewish Thought discussion tackles a timeless yet timely question: can one be authentically Jewish without believing in God? Our conversation will explore how Jewish identity encompasses theology, culture, practice, and peoplehood, and where God-belief fits within that complex tapestry. The discussion will be led by Rabbi Steve Cohen, Rabbi Emeritus of Congregation B'nai B'rith in Santa Barbara, where he served as senior rabbi for over two decades after nineteen years leading the Hillel Foundation at UC Santa Barbara. A graduate of Harvard University and ordained by Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, Rabbi Cohen brings deep scholarly expertise in midrash and classical Torah commentary, along with four decades of experience guiding diverse Jewish communities.

Known for his thoughtful approach to difficult questions and his commitment to creating inclusive spaces for spiritual exploration, Rabbi Cohen recently retired after a distinguished career helping individuals and families grapple with…