I often talk with some kids in front of their Jewish Center. Someone puts them out there to ask people "Are you Jewish". I used to say, "No I'm Irish", then I tried "No I'm an atheist", etc. When I started using "No, but I'm a scholar", (I'm an adjunct professor) they wanted to talk to me. I have a gray beard which is probably why they ask if I'm Jewish. They are trying to grow beards.

Anyway, I'm thinking of doing a free talk at their center about the connection between the Tarot and the Kaballah and the Jewish alphabet. Afterwards I can do some magic with Tarot cards...there are some nice things possible...and then some regular cards and maybe some mentalism. A freebee. Maybe line up a paying gig for a show for the younger kids - kiddie magic, someday. Why not?

Sounds like you have your homework cut out for you. This talk could end very badly. I am trying to be open minded, but gut says stop the press.

You wrote this several months ago. Did you do it? How did it go?

Different denominations of Jews would see this differently. Orthodox would be offended by a gentile teaching Kabbalah, and would be upset about any connection with kids magic. Something like that would have to be done by a Rabbi with tremendous sensitivity. I believe there is an Orthodox Rabbi magician who has a lecture that uses magic as a tool to explain Kabbalistic concepts, but for anyone who isn't incredibly qualified, I'd stay very far away.

Reform or Traditional Jews may appreciate it, but I don't think it's worth the risk.