JQore Values

At JQ, we recognize LGBTQ+ inclusivity as an inherent part of Judaism. JQ’s offerings are founded in Jewish values and wisdom that have shaped our community. Our values inform our three pillars of work – Connect, Learn, and Thrive – ensuring that all queer Jews and allies are embraced and celebrated as their whole selves. Below, you’ll find JQ’s 10 Jewish values and how we understand them in the context of queer liberation. Click the + icon below to read each value’s description!

B’Tzelem Elohim - Created in the Image of God • בצלם אלוהים

This value speaks to the inherent dignity and worth of all human beings; everyone is created in the image of God and deserves to be seen, accepted, and embraced as their authentic selves. This value transcends current understandings of gender identity, gender expression, sexuality, religion, race, ethnicity, age, socioeconomic status, and ability.

Tikkun Olam - Repairing the World • תיקון עולם

This world is a gift. This value speaks to our fundamental responsibility to leave the world better than we found it. It emphasizes the importance of taking action to improve our physical, social, and cultural environments to create a more just and equitable world.

Pikuach Nefesh - Saving a Life • פיקוח נפש

This value states that the safety and health of a human being is of the highest priority, superseding all other Jewish law. Embracing others decreases isolation and the challenges that come with that experience. Therefore, embracing the LGBTQ+ community is the ultimate example of Pikuach Nefesh in action.

Kehillah - Community • קהילה

This value encourages people to share both the oys and joys of life. It reminds us that every person is not a lone actor, but interconnected with one another. This value reminds us that every person deserves a supportive community in which they see themselves reflected and with whom to share their happiest moments, challenging moments, and everything in between.

Kol Yisrael Areivim Zeh B’Zeh - All Jews Are Responsible for One Another • כל ישראל ערבים זה בזה

This value asks us to pay attention to the needs of one another. If one member of our community is struggling, it is everyone’s responsibility to step up and help them. Allyship is an action that everyone can partake in. We’re strongest together.

Shalom Bayit — Peace in the Home • שלום בית

Kavod - Respect • כבוד

This value is central to inclusivity. It reminds us that we are all created in the image of God. Every person has dignity and worth and therefore deserves to be seen and honored as their whole selves. When we’re confused, in disagreement, or challenged, let us ask, how can we lead with respect in this moment?

Hessed - Kindness • חסד

This value teaches us to be open and welcoming to all people, especially to those who have been othered in our society. It reminds us to approach ourselves and others with the care and consideration that we hope is shown to us. Kindness is foundational to how we carry out all of our Jewish values.

Simchat Hayim - Celebrating Life • שמחת חיים

Each and every life is a gift. This value reminds us to find ways to celebrate our lives in joyous and challenging times. It encourages us to be grateful for the life that we have been given, to mark special moments, and to celebrate it with others. Empowering others to celebrate their authentic and whole selves can be the greatest act of Tikkun Olam.

Menuchat HaNefesh- Inner Peace and Calm • מנוחת הנפש

This value represents that we all are deserving of inner peace and self-acceptance. It also speaks to our responsibility to promote mental health and wellbeing for all. We can support inner peace by honoring each individual’s life experience and allowing them to be their full self in the presence of others.