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PJCC Art Gallery

Located in the Koret Learning Center hall, the Art Gallery at the Peninsula Jewish Community Center is committed to showcasing the works of talented Jewish artists as well as presenting exhibits that explore Jewish values, themes and ideas. Our exhibits are designed to stimulate personal thought and lively conversations among our members and guests. Exhibits are free and open to the public!

Magical Thinking: Superstitions & Other Persistent Notions

January 12 – March 26, 2024

On Loan from the Bernard Heller Museum at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion
Presented in Partnership with the Jewish Community Center of San Francisco

“One should not believe in superstitions, but still it is best to be heedful of them…” — Sefer Hasidim (Book of the Pious), 13th century, Germany

This collection of works from more than 20 contemporary artists explores superstitions in Jewish life, protective amulets, Jewish folklore characters, and symbolic imagery.

A message from PJCC: We acknowledge that the phrases “magical thinking” and “superstitions” can sometimes carry unintended negative implications, suggesting a lack of respect for diverse spiritual practices. At the PJCC, we deeply value and honor the rich variety of beliefs and rituals that enrich our community. Our goal is to foster an environment of understanding and appreciation for all perspectives. We see this as an opportunity to learn more about and from each other, encouraging a dialogue that strengthens respect and inclusivity.


Magic & Folklore in Jewish Traditions: Upcoming Programs & Events

About the Exhibit

When do people resort to the seemingly “magical” power of words and amulets in order to direct or control the outcome of their lives? The simple answer is “always.” We humans are born with an innate desire to achieve our “best” destinies. We privately barter with our own selves, silently converse and format exchanges of behavior resulting in reward. We mutter silent promises in trade for achieving a desired result, resort to “power” actions such as swearing, of wishing harm to the person barring our success, or trading a favor for the desired result. We embrace imaginary sources of assistance, such as wearing a “good luck” talisman or a “success” scarf. Perhaps these familiar charms and patterns of activity assuage our anxieties and bring reassurance that emboldens our actions. Swearing or cursing is akin to taking an oath. These are bold words to stiffen the spine, a forecast of reprisals if the compact is not fulfilled. The words curse and blessing are, in Hebrew, direct opposites. A curse is a wish of evil against another… Superstitions and folkloric belief differ from culture to culture, from era to era, and from one locale to the next. Based on geography, climate, demography, ritual observance, and perceived “success,” folk wisdom marches on. I guess it still works.

—Dr. Laura Kruger, Curator Emerita, Dr. Bernard Heller Museum

 

The PJCC is immensely grateful to our visionary donors.

The PJCC is proud to be a part of the Koret Initiative on Jewish Peoplehood.

We are honored to present this program through the Taube Center for Jewish Peoplehood at the PJCC.

Programs at the PJCC are made possible in part through generous support from our donors. To learn more or make a contribution, visit pjcc.org/donate.

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