5784 Course Highlights
ISRAEL POST
OCT . 7 with Dr . Yakir Englander
DIVINE & HUMAN
LOVE with Rabbi Jeff Hoffman , DHL
JUDAISM SCIENCE &
ETHICS with Rabbi Jonathan Crane
In the aftermath of October 7th , we examine the diverse reactions and transformations within Israeli society and their implications for American Jewish life , focusing on leadership , ethical , cultural , and societal changes . The exploration will be conducted through an indepth acquaintance with the questions and challenges arising from the conflict , engaging in dialogue with leaders featured in the course . Furthermore , participants will acquire leadership tools essential for Jewish-American leaders in the aftermath of the war .
What does Jewish tradition say about love in its many manifestations ? In this course , we delve into sources that describe , celebrate , and teach about love between people and God as well as between people . We examine the implications for the modern notion of romantic love , the mandate to work for justice , and the meaning of the Chosen People , among other ideas . We will deepen our appreciation for how traditional Jewish sources can surprise and inform .
The relationship between Judaism and science has received much attention , especially in the last century or so . Embedded in these discussions are concerns about values and ethics : what constitutes the good life , who or what is a human , what is the nature and extent of our responsibilities , which excellences should we pursue , and more . This short course investigates some of these ongoing deliberations , including discussions about personhood , disease , " unwanted life " and environmentalism through diverse Judaic sources .
JEWISH TEXT & ART with Rabbi Peter Stein
Art can be a powerful tool for uncovering new layers of meaning in Jewish texts and ideas . In this class , students will use art to respond to Jewish texts , expressing their own insights and original interpretations through a variety of visual media . Through this process , students will gain new tools for studying and teaching Torah while nurturing their own connection to art as a spiritual practice .
CANCER IN THE
COMMUNITY
with Melissa Rosen
This course provides rabbis , cantors , and other Jewish professionals with the knowledge and skills to provide much needed psychosocial spiritual support to community members facing cancer or other illness . The training covers topics such as an introduction to understanding cancer , where being Jewish may intersect with a cancer experience , how cultural nuances can impact diagnosis , treatment , and survivorship , spiritual concerns , and the creation of caring community and how that impacts both healing and the community-at-large . 16