Exploring our Dynamic Jewish Identities

What is this course?

What does it mean to be a Jew, in this highly charged moment? We find ourselves in a historic crisis. And yet, the Hebrew word for crisis or breakdown, (mashber) also means "birth stool". The challenges our people have faced, have long compelled us to tap into new depths of inspiration, vitality and creativity, and the current situation can also be such a moment. You're warmly invited to join Rabbi Daniel and our global community, as we examine and re-create what it means for each of us live in connection with the Jewish People, Judaism, and the Jewish State. Together, we will meditate, study and discuss inspiring texts, including many from our Chasidic Masters and Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook, which relate to these very questions. We will then take time for silent reflection upon, and/or expression of, the new possibilities and ideas inspired by our explorations in writing, drawing, etc, or any other media that call to you. Subjects we will consider, in light of our present reality, include: Particularism / tribalism and universalism The relationship(s) between Jews, the Jewish People and humanity Unity, Diversity and Pluralism within the Jewish People - left and right, secular and religious, progressive and traditional Peace and Wholeness - Shalom as a vessel which can hold opposites Synergy and tensions between our individual needs and narratives, and those of the Jewish People Our evolving individual relationships with the focal points of our collective consciousness and existence: the Land of Israel, Jerusalem, the Temple Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and redemption - the Jewish role in perfecting the world, and our own place in that story. All texts are provided with clear line-by-line translations, and no prior knowledge or experience with the subject matter is necessary. This course is open to novices and advanced learners of all backgrounds and levels. HOW DOES IT WORK? The course consists of eight live online sessions, of 1.5 hours each, during which we will meditate, learn, discuss, create / express and share. Each class is recorded as well and is sent out to all registrants following each class, so participants can watch the recordings at their leisure. DETAILS Wednesdays, 29 NOV – 17 JAN at 10am Pacific / 1pm Eastern / 6pm UK / 8pm Israel and the relevant hours in your time zones, for 90 minutes each time. The cost of the course is $180. Please contact R' Daniel if you would like to request subsidized registration.