Some Contextual Variables in Student Response to University-Level Study of Jewish Mysticism

Abstract

This study seeks to offer some data that may illuminate the relationship of academic courses in Judaica and the American Jewish search for identity. Student response to a course on Jewish Mysticism given as a regular part of the curriculum is analyzed. This response is correlated to the respondent's relationship with his family, his campus involvement, and his Jewish involvement at the college. A summary of responses shows three types: (1) those who perceive the course as a conservative force reestablishing ties to traditional Judaism; (2) those who perceive it as a revolutionary force which criticizes society; and (3) those who perceive it as catalyst for a transformation of personal religious behavior. By correlating these responses with the backgrounds of the students as obtained in questionnaires and interviews, it is suggested that the differences between the students' perceptions reflect the differing needs revealed in their contexts.