Navigating the Sea of Sacred Jewish Literature (Zoom)
Tuesday, October 20, 7:30–9:00 p.m.
Join Rabbi Roller as we embark together on a voyage of discover through the vast and diverse world of Jewish sacred literature. We will examine the unique characteristics of each genre and explore their historical contexts.
Starting with the varieties of biblical literature as a foundation, we will see how rabbinic, medieval, and modern texts build upon, reinterpret, and expand this core. Through this journey, we’ll gain insight into the rich tapestry of intertextuality that characterizes Jewish literature, witnessing how each era contributes to an ongoing, dynamic conversation within Jewish tradition. Sign up for Zoom [here].
Alternative Shabbat Sessions (Beit Midrash)
Saturdays, October 24, November 21, December 19, 10:00–11:00 a.m.
with Rabbi Hugh Seid-Valencia
Engage in close readings of excerpts from early Hasidic masters’ commentaries on the weekly Torah portion. These readings and discussions will serve as a springboard for exploring mindfulness meditation practice. Participants should come prepared to study, discuss, and experiment with meditation. No prior text study or meditation experience is necessary.
The Former Prophets with Rabbi Roller (Beit Midrash)
Saturday, October 24, 12:45–2:00 p.m.
Discover the most exciting biblical stories you have never heard before! We will be going through the Nevi’im Rishonim (Former Prophets) from Joshua through Kings. Explore stories of war, love, betrayal and revenge that rival anything on a bestseller list. We will be primarily using Robert Alter’s translation. Other translations of Hebrew Bible are acceptable as well. Please bring any Hebrew Bible you might have from home. There are a limited number of texts available for use during class.
Experiencing Israel During War (Beit Midrash)
Sunday, October 25, 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
San Jose resident Anastasia Torres-Gil shares her firsthand experience of living in Israel during rocket attacks, offering a personal look at the resilience, courage, and sense of community she witnessed in the face of crisis.
Torah Study with Rabbi Kunin (Beit Midrash)
Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Occasionally this class is cancelled, please check our calendar to confirm dates here.
The Torah is our timeless treasure, with answers for the pivotal questions of the past, present and future. Sometimes it challenges us, and sometimes it disturbs us. Nonetheless there is always room for learning and debate. Each week we will examine ideas and issues from the weekly parasha and, through discussion and sometimes debate, discover meaningful connections between the wisdom our Torah and our modern lives. Please join this weekly informal Torah study session with Rabbi Kunin on a drop-in basis.
Talmud Study with Rabbi Kunin (Zoom)
Occasionally this class is cancelled, please check our calendar to confirm dates here.
Please join Rabbi David Kunin for weekly Talmud study online. The Talmud is the foundational document of rabbinic Judaism, containing laws and lore which underlie how Jews approach the world. Its dialectic toward truth yields a multiplicity of answers which we will explore in depth. All are welcome. No prior Talmud study experience necessary.