Wearing Religious Jewelry as a Jew

When I was growing up, I was encouraged to avoid wearing an overtly Jewish necklace unless I was going to a synagogue or family celebration.

 

I remember once going into a mall with my mother and we were met by a young saleswoman wearing a large star of David necklace.

My mother was surprised to find a) a Jewish salesperson in this gentile neighborhood and b) a salesperson who dared to wear her large Star of David necklace.

My mother is an extrovert and began to converse with the young woman. At one point, my mother asked if she had ever experienced any antisemitism because of her necklace and the girl shook her head no.

Years later, when I was in my mid-twenties, I met my cousin at the airport for a trip abroad. I commented that I was surprised she wore her Star of David necklace traveling.

 

My cousin responded, "Well, you have to tuck it into your shirt when traveling, but I wear it all of the time."

Hiding the necklace.

Avoiding a necklace.

After October 7th so many Jews I have encountered have felt the need to either take off their necklace due to fear of antisemitism or put a necklace on to show solidarity and pride.

I have found most folks I meet with choose to wear small necklaces or charms, so that they do not attract unwanted attention and only those who familiar with the symbols will know what they mean.

Do you wear Jewish jewelry? Do you wear it traveling?

If you have had similar experiences, moments of confusion, anger, or shame, I invite you to join me in September for "Understanding Trauma for Anxious Jews" where together we will explore the ins and outs of Jewish identity.

You're not alone.

Hannah 

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