Why many Jewish people identify as atheists while still practicing ancient traditions

Ideas & Philosophy · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Jewish atheism is not a contradiction, but a reflection of a deep, multifaceted identity. For many, being Jewish is rooted in ancestry, culture, and history rather than supernatural belief. This allows individuals to reject the existence of God while remaining firmly connected to their heritage, community, and centuries-old rituals.

Jewish identity is uniquely multifaceted, encompassing ethnic, cultural, and religious dimensions. Because Jewish law emphasizes maternal descent, an atheist born to a Jewish mother is considered fully Jewish by traditional standards. In the United States, this secular approach is widespread; a 2013 Pew Research Center study revealed that 62% of American Jews view their identity primarily through the lens of ancestry and culture, while only 15% prioritize religion. By 2025, research indicated that 26% of American Jews explicitly reject belief in God or a universal spirit.

This secularity often manifests in a commitment to Jewish life that bypasses metaphysical claims. Many Jewish atheists participate in traditions like Shabbat, Passover, or Hanukkah, viewing them as vital cultural heritage rather than religious obligations. This practice-oriented approach is supported by various non-Orthodox denominations, such as Reform, Conservative, and Reconstructionist Judaism, where belief in God is not strictly required for observance. Philosophers and rabbis have even developed 'predicate theology' or naturalistic definitions of God to focus on 'godliness' and human ethics, creating a space where theism and atheism are not the primary points of contention.

The history of this movement is long and diverse, with roots tracing back to the 17th-century philosopher Baruch Spinoza, often labeled the herald of the secular age. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, figures like Karl Marx, Sigmund Freud, and Ayn Rand shaped modern intellectual discourse from secular positions. Today, Jewish atheism continues to evolve, with many individuals finding meaning in literature, humor, food, and language. Whether through the socialist traditions of the early 20th-century Bund or modern humanist organizations, Jewish atheists demonstrate that one can renounce the divine while remaining deeply tethered to the peoplehood and history of the Jewish experience.

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