it has been estimated more than 30% of non-Asian Buddhists are Jews. in the USA, particularly in the 1970s (and today), Jews lead the introduction of Buddhism in the USA, particularly the opening of secular meditation centres
Jews and Buddhism: Belief Amended, Faith Revealed A film by Bill Chayes and Isaac Solotaroff. Original music by Jami Sieber Produced in cooperation with The Judah L. Magnes Museum. Narrated by Sharon Stone. This film examines the dramatic surge of interest among American Jews in the spiritual teachings of Buddhism. Jews, who make up 2% of the population, account for some 30% of non-Asian American Buddhists. Many of them are among the leading expositors and scholars of Buddhism in America.
In practice, traditional Jewish ritual and liturgy are being modified in synagogues and among individuals seeking to incorporate the teachings of Buddhism into their spiritual lives.
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The Insight Meditation Society (IMS) is a non-profit organization for study of Buddhism located in Barre, Massachusetts. It was founded in 1975, by Sharon Salzberg, Jack Kornfield, and Joseph Goldstein, and is rooted in the Theravada tradition. Its first retreat center in an old mansion in Barre, Massachusetts was opened on February 14, 1976.
