Prayers of Awe: “Who shall live and who shall die,” Really?
Thursday, October 3, approx. 11:00am – 12:30pm (Rooms 15-17)
Led by Sheryl Rattner
In this Netiv session, concurrent with the Musaf service in the sanctuary, we will be examining the traditional text of Un’taneh Tokef, one of the most inaccessible parts of the High Holy Day Mazhor. For most Conservative Jews, the idea of a God who metes out life or death, reward or punishment, according to one’s deeds and/or merit feels doubtful, as we can all think of numerous counter-examples, wicked individuals who are successful, righteous individuals who suffer. In this session, we will consider alternative approaches to this key part of the liturgy, including interpretations which do not depend on a belief in pre-determination. Commentary from a variety of scholars will be presented, including contemporary voices found in the Rabbi Lawrence Hoffman book, Prayers of Awe: Who by fire, who by water, and medieval figures as well.
Jonah – a Mysterious Book (In Russian)
Saturday, October 12, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. (Rooms 15-17)
Led by Rabbi Ilana Baird
Читать русский перевод
Do you also think that Yom Kippur is one of the most important days for Jews? If so, we invite you to get together for a conversation about the prophet Jonah (the book that is read on every Yom Kippur). Many Jews believe that the honor of reading this book on Yom Kippur will bring them happiness throughout the year. But what is this book about? Join Rabbi Baird on Yom Kippur to uncover the mysteries and questions of the Book of Jonah. Perhaps this coming year we will see happier days because we studied this book together.
Kabbalah As a Tool Toward Spiritual Transformation and Teshuvah
Saturday, October 12, approx. 12:00 – 1:30 p.m. (Rooms 15-17)
Led Joseph Bendahan
The days leading to Yom Kippur give us a special opportunity to cleanse our souls, mend the barriers between ourselves and God, and elevate our spirits. In Kabbalah, the emphasis is on returning to God, involving three key elements: recognition of wrongdoing, remorse for actions taken, and resolve for future change. In this Netiv session, Joseph Bendahan will present and discuss some basic but important concepts of Kabbalah that will facilitate our embarking on a journey toward self-improvement. The session will include a short meditation as one tool towards this transformation. (This Netiv will be held in Rooms 15-16, concurrently with Yom Kippur Musaf in the sanctuary.)