Saying that the biblical psalms are “great poetry” is often a way of saying, “No one reads them.” We’re going to read selected psalms from the Bible and Dead Sea Scrolls, 1) as fans of good poetry, 2) as sources of theological and spiritual insight, and 3) as texts upon which to carry our most […]
For serious learners who want to acquire the ability to speak, understand, read and write Modern Hebrew. These classes are lively, engaging and lots of fun. In addition to various texts, the classes use remote learning tools like videos, Quizlet flashcards, and games like Kahoot to enhance engagement and increase learning. Susie Chalom is a master […]
From ancient times to our own, some Jews have been seen by others as having forfeited their place among the Jewish people. Herem, nidui, apikoros, – all terms associated with the charge that someone has violated a crucial aspect of Jewish life. From Korach to Mordechai Kaplan; from Hasidim, and feminists, to current tensions in […]
We will study Psalm 12 which laments the “truthiness” and duplicity of humanity and a midrash which turns it around to honor people and honor democracy. That midrashic turn by our rabbinic tradition gives hope. We will take this learning to look soberly at Israel’s fragile democracy and the growing numbers who are heirs to […]
Saying that the biblical psalms are “great poetry” is often a way of saying, “No one reads them.” We’re going to read selected psalms from the Bible and Dead Sea Scrolls, 1) as fans of good poetry, 2) as sources of theological and spiritual insight, and 3) as texts upon which to carry our most […]
For the last two centuries, Jewish liturgists have framed a variety of prayers for their diasporic, home countries and governments. While patriotic on their face, these prayers often contain subtle notes of ambivalence and protest, providing a rich lens into the relationship between Jews and nation states. In this text study, we’ll read a variety […]
For serious learners who want to acquire the ability to speak, understand, read and write Modern Hebrew. These classes are lively, engaging and lots of fun. In addition to various texts, the classes use remote learning tools like videos, Quizlet flashcards, and games like Kahoot to enhance engagement and increase learning. Susie Chalom is a master […]
From ancient times to our own, some Jews have been seen by others as having forfeited their place among the Jewish people. Herem, nidui, apikoros, – all terms associated with the charge that someone has violated a crucial aspect of Jewish life. From Korach to Mordechai Kaplan; from Hasidim, and feminists, to current tensions in […]
Saying that the biblical psalms are “great poetry” is often a way of saying, “No one reads them.” We’re going to read selected psalms from the Bible and Dead Sea Scrolls, 1) as fans of good poetry, 2) as sources of theological and spiritual insight, and 3) as texts upon which to carry our most […]
Part of the wisdom of the Jewish tradition is to provide outlets for collective grief. On the 9th of Av, Jews fast in collective mourning over the destruction of the Temple and other disasters that have befallen the Jews. Today, grief in the Jewish community is palpable. And none of us is alone in these […]
