nfty’s 13 principles
As a part of the Reform Jewish Youth movement, NFTY strives to provide meaningful and engaging experiences. These experiences are inspired by 13 values-based principles, ensuring that our movement’s mission and journey are based on our shared values. Together, these 13 Principles guide us as we create a holistic Jewish environment, allowing NFTY to continuously evolve, and remain a dynamic Jewish Reform Youth movement for years to come.
TORAH – תורה
A commitment to God and Torah as a means of inter- and intra-personal fulfillment
THE STATE OF ISRAEL – MEDINAT YISRAEL – מדינת ישראל
The centrality of the State of Israel to the strength and survival of the Jewish People
HISTORY – MIDOR L’DOR - מדור לדור
The recognition that in order to fully appreciate our present and ensure our future we must strive to understand our past
PLURALISM – KOL YEHUDIM - כל יהודים
The acceptance and encouragement of alternate modes of Jewish experience
JUSTICE – TZEDEK - צדק
The obligation to work for justice for all
COMMUNITY – KEHILAH - קהילה
The need for community to provide an outlet for the individual needs of all Jews
PARTNERSHIP – SHUTAFUT - שותפות
The need and desire to work together to foster each individual’s connection and commitment to ensuring the vibrancy of our movement
THE JEWISH PEOPLE – AM YISRAEL - עם ישראל
The unity of the Jewish People
HEBREW – IVRIT – עברית
The importance of the Hebrew language as a vital component to the strength of the Jewish People
CHOICE THROUGH KNOWLEDGE – NILMAD V’NA’ASEH – נלמד ונעשה
The necessity of lifelong Jewish learning and teaching as a foundation for our observance through a life of continual discovery of Jewish tradition, law and ethics
SELF – TIKKUN MIDDOT - תיקון מידות
The understanding that we are to be a light unto the nations by fostering an environment where every individual can meet and exceed their potential as Jews and citizens of the world
REPAIRING THE WORLD - TIKKUN OLAM - תיקון עולם
The obligation to repair the world
FUN AND SPIRIT – KEF v’RUACH - כיף ורוח
The importance of fun and spirit as foundations of our movement