Madonna voted top follower of Judaism

Madonna has been voted one of the most influential followers of the Jewish faith in the world today by American Jewish magazine The Forward.

The Material Girl, raised as a Catholic, is now a devoted follower of the Kabbalah, a derivative of Judaism.

The magazine said of her inclusion: "This year's Forward 50 actually includes 51 entries but the extra one should be seen as more of a cherry-on-top than an afterthought.

"Madonna, who does not consider herself Jewish, has earned her place as one of the 50 most influential people practising some form of Judaism today."

The Forward goes on to claim that her music since her conversion has been superior to her previous efforts, perhaps conveniently ignoring American Pie. This, they say, is a direct result of her new religious persuasion.

The magazine goes on to say: "Madonna was introduced to Jewish mysticism via the controversial Kabbalah Centre founded by Rabbi Berg.

"In a burst of creativity following the birth of her daughter, she produced what many critics believe to be her best album - 'Ray of Light' - which takes its title from the Kabbalistic theory about the origins of the world.

"With Kabbalah, Madonna seems to have settled finally into herself - and the world."