Did you make a New Year’s Resolution to learn more about Judaism? Intro to Judaism classes are great for interfaith couples — take the class together –they stimulate good discussions, answer questions and you’ll get to know other interesting people. Jump in! Exploring Judaism This course is a year-long exploration of the history, beliefs, traditions,…
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Introduction to the Jewish Experience: Israel and Texts
The land of Israel has been central to Jewish history, both ancient and modern. Even during the years of galut (exile) the Jewish heart was “in the east,” in the words of medieval poet Yehudah HaLevy. This class will examine the history of ancient Israel, the beginnings of rabbinic Judaism, and the modern return to…
Read More »A basic class: A Taste of Judaism
The Union for Reform Judaism (the umbrella group for Reform synagogues) provides a wonderful brief curriculum titled A Taste of Judaism. This 3 session class gives you a good basic understanding of the pillars of Judaism. It is free. This January Temple Israel in Alameda has received funding to offer the class. Call the synagogue…
Read More »Introduction to Judaism classes Fall 2013
Judaism 101 Introduction or Re-discovery of Judaism Taught by Rabbi Susan Leider Enhance your connection to contemporary Jewish life! This course incorporates text and discussion to explore biblical and rabbinic writings, history and culture, the meanings and metaphors of Jewish holiday celebrations, concepts of God, ethics, the Jewish lifecycle, and Israel. Drop in to any…
Read More »Beyond the Basics of Judaism
BEYOND THE BASICS: DELVING DEEPER INTO JEWISH EXPERIENCE This course is intended for graduates of “Intro” courses as well as for those who have a basic knowledge of Judaism but who wish to look more deeply into the introductory topics. These three parts roughly follow the outline of topics in Introduction to the Jewish Experience,…
Read More »Learn more about the Friday night service
My good friend, Rabbi Ruth Adar, is teaching a class on the Reform synagogue Friday night service. She’s friendly, fun and you’ll learn something too! MORE JEWISH EXPERIENCE PRAYER: EREV SHABBAT There is an internal logic to the order in which Jews say the prayers in the service, but it is not always easy to…
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