Judaism

In the past couple decades, religious-themed restaurants and bars have proliferated. Drinking liquor and spending huge sums on sensual indulgences would seem to conflict with some of the core tenets of the major religions. Most of these establishments simply use the ambiance of a religious setting, utilizing little more than the art and architecture of a religion. But at the Ukraine’s Jewish themed “Under the Golden Rose,” you can get a black top hat and fake curls when you enter, are required to haggle over the price of your meal, and can even order pork if you pay enough. Responding to those who say the restaurant is insensitive and perpetuates stereotypes, the owners say it is all good-natured fun. What do you think of this practice? Is there a point at which using religion for secular gains is a problem? Research online to see if you can find other examples of religion being used as a “theme” of commercialism. Share what you find.