Ralph Kramden belonged to the International Order of Friendly Sons of the Raccoons , a fraternal organization that required funny hats, silly songs and was governed by rules that were both arcane and often-argued about. Why did Ralph go? For the camaraderie, I presume, and also because its fun to be a part of something big, and old, and, well, special. The sticky rules are also part of the fun, I think. Frasier and Niles, for example, belong to a Wine Club, and at least half of their enjoyment is derived from citing the bizarre bylaws that govern their club and dinging each other for violating them.
There are many Jews who keep halacha and go to shul for the same reasons. Thus, I propose a new word:
Raccoon Club Judaism
n.
The branch of Judaism that strictly adheres to Jewish ritual, but only for the social benefits
Raccoon Club Jews
n.
Jews who treat their religion like a fraternal club
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