Question
My ancestors on my mother’s side were Jewish. Though I don’t practice the Jewish religion, does that make me Jewish?
Answer
Yes, if it was strictly the maternal line. That is, if your mother’s mother’s mother was Jewish, then you are Jewish. However, note that some modernist movements would not consider you Jewish. If you fit the above criteria, any Orthodox community would consider you 100% Jewish.
Do you have evidence of your mother’s ancestry? Because you may want to get this documented for yourself and/or your children.
If you do fit these criteria, and would like me to recommend some basic books about what this might mean for you, please let me know.
Rabbi Seinfeld
daasbooks.com