An in-depth course in Judaism, for Jews and non-Jews alike. We’ll cover Jewish practice, belief, history, and texts, and the course will involve in-class (virtually-speaking) and experiential learning. This class is for people looking to learn more about Judaism and considering converting, and for Jews looking to learn more about their religious tradition. The course will be team-taught by TBA’s clergy. If you are considering converting, in addition to registering, please be in touch with Rabbi Vaisberg.
Wednesdays, 7:45 PM
Cooking? Carrying? Working? Where do all of these rules come from, and why? Join us as we explore how our Sages in the Mishnah (~200 C.E.) took a unique custom like the biblical Shabbat and built it into the spiritual, all-encompassing experience that is our current practice. We will take a close look at Mishnah Shabbat as we ponder what the Rabbis had in mind for this foundational experience, exploring how we ourselves might continue to make meaning from our inherited tradition. No experience with text necessary and all material will be offered in translation!
Thursdays 12:00-1:15 PM
Jan 21, Feb 4, Feb 18, March 4, March 18, April 15, April 29, May 13
For thousands of years, sheydim (demons) have been central to the lives of Jews. Some are harmful, others can be helpful. Knowing how to avoid them, live with them or even expel them, was a matter of great interest to the rabbis. Based on the popular podcast, “Throwing Sheyd” — take a tour of Jewish demonology by exploring Jewish texts that mention sheydim and their influences. We will learn Jewish text and tradition where the likes of Lilith, Ashmodai, and Joe the Demon thwart rabbis, haunt ruins, and hover menacingly over your carelessly open books or uncovered kiddish cups. Hopefully along the way, we can learn teachings that help us fight the darkness today and bring more light to the world. Thursday, March 4, March 11, March 25 and April 8, 7:00 PM