The influence of Buddhism on Judaism, particularly in the realm of meditation and mindfulness, is highlighted by the phenomenon of "Jewish Buddhists" or "Jubus." Tim Ferriss discussed this with Dan Harris in an episode where they noted several Jewish pioneers in Western meditation and mindfulness from the 1970s, such as Joseph Goldstein, Sharon Salzberg, and Jack Kornfield. These individuals were significantly influenced by Buddhist practices, incorporating these elements into their teachings and lives.

This cross-cultural influence is rooted in personal journeys, such as that of Ram Dass (born Richard Alpert), a Jewish Harvard professor who became deeply involved in Hindu and Buddhist practices after traveling to India and adopting new spiritual paradigms. This blending of Jewish cultural backgrounds with Buddhist practices has created a unique intersection where the philosophies and techniques of both traditions enrich followers' spiritual lives and mindfulness practices 1.