Jewish Institute of Religion

The Jewish Institute of Religion (JIR) was a rabbinical school and seminary founded in 1903 in New York City. It aimed to modernize Jewish education and promote Reform Judaism, focusing on scholarly study and social justice. JIR trained rabbis, cantors, and educators, emphasizing intellectual engagement with Jewish texts and contemporary issues. In 1950, it became part of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR), which continues to serve as a major institution for Reform Jewish education and leadership, providing programs across the United States and internationally.