Front cover - Lehrhaus Judaica

Transcription

Winter | Spring
2013 | 5773
Spring Retreat
Marconi Conference Center
Tomales Bay
Lehrhaus 360
Actress Mayim Bialik
Marin JCC
70th Anniversary
Warsaw Ghetto Uprising
JCCSF
lehrhaus.org
Lehrhaus Arts: Music Takes Center Stage
A collaboration with the Jewish Music Festival
Opening Night of 28th Jewish Music Festival
The Past and Future of Jewish Music in Poland:
Polesya and Shofar
• Hear Polesya from Poland’s deep historical roots and Shofar representing Poland’s contemporary Jewish scene.
• Enjoy a pre-concert discussion with Ruth Ellen Gruber.
Saturday, March 2
Berkeley Repertory Theatre
Shofar
A Special Tribute to Lyricist
Yip Harburg:
The Man Who Put the Rainbow
in the Wizard of Oz
With musical theatre maven, Bonnie Weiss
Sunday, January 27
JCC East Bay, Berkeley
Veretski Pass Workshops
Talks and performances by an internationally known trio
highlight Jewish music from the land where the Ottoman
East met Europe.
Klezmer Music and Hazzones
Thursday, February 7
Busting the Myth of Klezmer
Monday, February 11
Look inside for details on these programs!
The Reutlinger Center
2736 Bancroft Way
Berkeley, CA 94704
(510) 845-6420
(510) 845-6446 FAX
info@lehrhaus.org
Contents
STAFF
Executive Director
Jehon Grist, Ph.D.
Founding Director
Fred Rosenbaum
Senior Educator
Rabbi Peretz Wolf-Prusan
Program/Associate Director
Erika Staiti
Director of Communications
Debbie Rosenfeld-Caparaz
Business and Student
Services Manager
Vernita Lyons
Project Coordinator
Abra Greenspan
Director
Building Jewish Bridges
Dawn C. Kepler
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Eve Bernstein
President
Eda Pell
Founding President
Prof. Marc Dollinger
Academic Vice President
Martin Aufhauser
Treasurer
Jo-Ann Jacobson
Executive Board
Rabbi Ted Alexander
Ed Epstein
Janis Sherman Popp
Dr. Barbara Rosenberg
Guide to Catalog
About Lehrhaus ......................................................................... 2
Co-sponsors and Locations .................................................. 3
Registration Form.................................................................... 32
Courses, Workshops, and Lectures
Lehrhaus 360 .............................................................................. 4
Community Events ................................................................... 7
Ancient & Modern History .................................................... 8
Classic & Contemporary Texts ........................................... 10
Contemporary Issues ............................................................ 12
Back to the Torah..................................................................... 14
The Arts ....................................................................................... 15
Jewish Music Festival ............................................................ 16
Intro to Judaism ....................................................................... 18
Building Jewish Bridges........................................................ 19
Spirituality & Kabbalah ......................................................... 23
Hebrew......................................................................................... 24
Yiddish.......................................................................................... 29
Summer Program..................................................................... 30
A beneficiary of the Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco,
the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
The Lehrhaus Judaica Course Catalog
Volume 39, No. 1— January 1, 2013 — Published twice yearly
Lehrhaus Judaica — The Adult School for Jewish Studies
The Reutlinger Center, 2736 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, CA 94704
JFCS Holocaust Center, 2245 Post Street, San Francisco, CA 94115
Howard Simon
Design: Frisco Graphics | www.friscographics.com
Ruthellen Toole
Front cover: Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, photo courtesy of United States Holocaust Memorial
Museum, courtesy of National Archives and Records Administration, College Park
Susan Wallach
Dr. Murray Zucker
lehrhaus.org
About Lehrhaus
Bay Area's Non-Denominational
Jewish Studies Adult School
Every course is open to the general public, and all interested
adults are welcome, regardless of age, religion, or ethnicity.
Our faculty is made up of local university professors,
advanced Ph.D. students, rabbis, and other experienced
educators, as well as visiting scholars from major universities
in the United States and abroad. We offer engaging seminars
and lecture courses throughout the Bay Area on Jewish
history, philosophy, sociology, theology, literature, Hebrew
and Yiddish, and the arts.
Whether you’re looking for a basic introduction to Judaism
course, a modern Hebrew conversation class, a history of
the Middle East conflict, or an in-depth exploration of classic
Jewish texts, we have something for you! We also provide
national and international study tours, and our 5,500-volume
Jewish studies library is open to the public in Berkeley.
Founded in 1974 by historian
Fred Rosenbaum, Lehrhaus
took its name (meaning “house
of learning”) and inspiration
from a school for Jewish studies
founded by philosopher Franz
Rosenzweig in Frankfurt,
Germany, in 1920. Attracting
scholars such as Martin
Buber, S.Y. Agnon, A.J. Heschel,
Gershom Scholem, and Erich
Fromm, the original Lehrhaus,
until its closure by the Nazis, was
Franz Rosenzweig
the focal point of a Jewish
Franz Rosenzweig
intellectual revival between the wars. Dialogue between the student
and teacher was the primary method of learning, which, according to
Rosenzweig and Buber, “could restore something genuinely Jewish to
the Western intellectual.”
Special Thanks
Lehrhaus expresses its deepest thanks for the generosity and vision
of two family foundations:
The Laszlo N. Tauber Family Foundation
With special thanks to Dr. Ingrid Tauber
The Goodman Family Foundation
With special thanks to Richard A. Goodman
Major Support Provided by
The Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties
The Ingrid D. Tauber Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Community Federation and Endowment Fund
Additional Support (alphabetical order)
The Koret Foundation
R.M. Cohen Foundation with special thanks to
Diane and Howard Zack
Libitzky Family Foundation
Robert Engel
Eda and Joseph Pell
Fleishhacker Foundation
Irving Rabin, z"l, and Varda Rabin
Estate of Mort Fleishhacker
Dr. Barbara and Richard Rosenberg
Eve Bernstein and Alex Gersznowicz
Sinai Memorial Chapel
Fred Isaac and Robin Reiner
The Taube Foundation for Jewish Life and Culture
The Jewish Community Federation and
Ruthellen Toole and the Toole Family
Foundation of the Greater East Bay
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Register at lehrhaus.org
Lehrhaus courses are made possible through the cooperative efforts of synagogues, Jewish Community Centers, and other organizations throughout each of the regions we serve. This reference page helps you find the location for the classes you’d like to attend.
Addison-Penzak JCC
14855 Oka Road, Los Gatos
408-357-7419
svjcc.org
Congregation Netivot Shalom
1316 University Avenue, Berkeley
510-549-9447
netivotshalom.org
Jewish LearningWorks
639 14th Avenue, San Francisco
415-751-6983
jewishlearningworks.org
Asilomar Conference Center
800 Asilomar Boulevard, Pacific Grove
831-372-8016
visitasilomar.com
Congregation Sha'ar Zahav
290 Dolores Street, San Francisco
415-861-6932
shaarzahav.org
Kevah
748A Gilman Street, Berkeley
510-280-5656
www.kevah.org
Berkeley Rep
2025 Addison Street, Berkeley
510-647-2949
berkeleyrep.org
Congregation Sherith Israel
2266 California Street, San Francisco
415-346-1720
sherithisrael.org
Marconi Conference Center
18500 State Highway One, Marshall
415-663-9020
marconiconference.org
Beth Jacob Congregation
3778 Park Boulevard, Oakland
510-482-1147
bethjacoboakland.org
Congregation Shomrei Torah
2600 Bennett Valley Road
Santa Rosa
707-578-5519
shomreitorah.org
The Marsh Center
2120 Allston Way, Berkeley
510-704-8291
themarsh.org
2736 Bancroft Way, Berkeley
510-845-6420
buildingjewishbridges.org
Congregation Beth Am
26790 Arastradero Road
Los Altos Hills
650-493-4661
betham.org
Congregation Beth El
1301 Oxford Street, Berkeley
510-848-3988
bethelberkeley.org
Congregation Beth Israel
1630 Bancroft Way, Berkeley
510-843-5246
cbiberkeley.org
Congregation Kol Emeth
4175 Manuela Avenue, Palo Alto
650-948-7498
kolemeth.org
Congregation Kol Shofar
215 Blackfield Drive, Tiburon
415-388-1818
kolshofar.org
Contemporary Jewish Museum
736 Mission Street, San Francisco
415-665-7800
thecjm.org
Contra Costa Jewish Day School
3836 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette
925-284-8288
ccjds.org
Il Fornaio
223 Corte Madera Town Center
Corte Madera
415-927-4400
ilfornaio.com
JCC East Bay
1414 Walnut Street, Berkeley
510-848-0237
jcceastbay.org
JCCSF
3200 California Street, San Francisco
415-292-1200
jccsf.org
Jewish Community Library
1835 Ellis Street, San Francisco
415-567-3327
bjesf.org
Co-Sponsors
Co-Sponsors and Locations
Osher Marin JCC
200 N. San Pedro Road, San Rafael
415-444-8000
marinjcc.org
Oshman Family JCC
3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto
650-223-8700
paloaltojcc.org
Pacific School of Religion
1798 Scenic Avenue, Berkeley
510-849-8200
psr.edu
Peninsula Temple Sholom
1655 Sebastian Drive, Burlingame
650-697-2266
sholom.org
Temple Sinai
2808 Summit Street, Oakland
510-451-3263
oaklandsinai.org
Workmen's Circle/Arbeter Ring of
Northern California
415-566-7235
circle.org/northern-california
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Lehrhaus 360
Lehrhaus and the Osher Marin JCC Present
Free Ranging Communities:
Jewish Life in Marin and Hollywood
It's no secret that Marin Jewish culture is unique and free ranging. But is it sustainable?
Come to a gathering of diverse voices and learn how they identify themselves,
relate to their communities, balance their lives in seemingly contradictory environments,
and navigate through the various spaces of Marin Jewish life.
Join us, and lend your own voice to the conversation. What are you balancing? Are
you joining traditional institutions or seeking new models? Are you living in a multicultural Jewish family? Explore the characteristics of your life that transcend easily
defined categories by hearing voices from your communities and adding your
own voice to the discussion.
Keynote Experience With Mayim Bialik
Being Jewish and Observant in Hollywood:
What Are the Values That Keep Me Sane?
A conversation and Q&A will follow the keynote, with Mayim Bialik and Maya
Bernstein, director of education and leadership initiatives at Upstart Bay Area.
Voices From Our Communities
• Geraldine Barr. I am a traditional, Jewish, lesbian mother in search of the
perfect chicken soup recipe.
•
Dove and Zviki Govrin. We are hosts of BEYTI (Beit Tarbut Ysraeli, House of
Israeli Culture), a place where Marin Israelis can gather together, sing Hebrew songs, and celebrate holidays like back home in Israel. We have family in the Bay Area and in Israel.
Dr. Mayim Bialik, Emmy-nominated Best
Supporting Actress for her role as Amy
Farrah Fowler on The Big Bang Theory, will
discuss how she balances her life as a
religiously observant Jew working in Hollywood. Bialik holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience,
has two young children, is a spokesperson
for the Holistic Moms Network, and
recently published her first book.
• David Knepler. I am co-founder of Gan HaLev (The Jewish Congregation of San Geronimo Valley), adoptive father of two, and facilitator of the Jewish
American Fiction Book Club.
Sunday, March 17
1:00 - 5:00 pm | $10
Osher Marin JCC, San Rafael
•
Supported by:
Ingrid D. Tauber Philanthropic Fund of the JCF
Eda and Joseph Pell
A Conversation With Founders
• Marlene Saritzky. My life has fluctuated in and out of Judaism with stops at camp, rebellion, un-affiliation, NITA, and back again.
• Natalia Straus. I have a Christian mother, a Muslim father, a Jewish husband, and a life in the Jewish community. I am the director of individual gifts at the Osher Marin JCC.
Gina Waldman. I was born in Libya, fled to Italy, immigrated to San Francisco, and settled in Marin. I was the director of the Bay Area Council for Soviet Jewry, vand I am the co-founder of JIMENA (Jews Indigenous to the Middle East and North Africa). I am a human rights activist.
San Francisco State Professor Marc Dollinger will be in conversation with founders
of the Marin Jewish community, including Rabbi Michael Barenbaum, Elliot
Levin, and others. They will discuss their hopes for the Marin Jewish community,
will reflect on what has worked and what hasn’t, and what remains to be done.
What Have We Learned?
We will conclude with an open community conversation wrapping up the day's
discussions. Results will be posted on the Lehrhaus and Osher Marin JCC websites.
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Lehrhaus Spring Retreat
Join us for Lehrhaus’ first retreat at the Marconi Conference Center on beautiful
Tomales Bay, and study a range of intriguing topics with master faculty.
Professor Deena Aranoff
Maimonides on Shabbat
How the Nurse Got Lost and Other Mysteries of Creation
Rachel Brodie
Land Mine: Nationalism and Other Unnatural Disasters in the
Poetry of Yehuda Amichai
Deena Aranoff
Cain and Abel: An Investigation of Crime Scene Art from
Frescoes to Photos
Rabbi Lavey Derby
Freed from Suffering
The Way of the Mystic
Jehon Grist, Ph.D.
Where Did the Goddess Go? The Divine Feminine
in Biblical Religion
Why Egypt Matters
Rachel Brodie
Rabbi Dorothy Richman
Singing Shabbat: What is Piyyut?
Lavey Derby
Parsha Poetry: The Accused Woman
Fred Rosenbaum
Fighting Back Against Radical Evil: Jewish Partisans in the
Forests of Eastern Europe, 1942-44
How the Bay Area is Different: Major Trends in Jewish Life from
the Gold Rush to the Present
Walk and Learn: The Poetry and Power of Rav Kook
Jehon Grist
Dorothy Richman
A Tribe of Amazons, Alexander the Great, Caesar, and a Rabbi
Walk Into a Bar, No, a Cave
Friday-Sunday, May 17-19
Marconi Conference Center, Marshall
Regular Rate: Double: $550 / Single: $650
Early Registration: Double: $475 / Single: $575 (before Jan. 14)
Deposit: $100 non-refundable deposit secures early registration rate until Feb. 21.
Supported by: Ingrid D. Tauber Philanthropic Fund of the JCF.
Fred Rosenbaum
Peretz Wolf-Prusan
5
Lehrhaus 360
Lehrhaus, JCCSF, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum,
and JFCS Holocaust Center present
They Did Not Stand Idly By
Yom HaShoah and the 70th Anniversary of the
Warsaw Ghetto Uprising
Warsaw Ghetto Uprising Study Sessions — 1:30 pm
The Warsaw Ghetto Uprising in Context
John M. Efron, Koret Professor of Jewish History at the University of California,
Berkeley, will describe and illuminate the formation of the ghetto, its internal politics
and culture, Nazi policy, and how the revolt emerged out of those conditions.
The Coming of the Holocaust
A Holocaust survivor and native of Hungary, Peter Kenez is a scholar of the history
of Russia and the former Soviet Union. He is currently working on a book-length
study investigating the preconditions for mass murder in countries occupied by
the Nazis during the Second World War. He will discuss how anti-Semitism in the
pre-industrial world was different from that of the 19th century, and how Nazi
anti-Semitism was dependent on the economic, political, and social success of the
European Jewish community.
What is our Legacy?
Morgan Blum, director of education with the JFCS Holocaust Center and March
of the Living alumni (1998), will hold a round table discussion for young adults
and college-aged students on identity, responsibility, and legacy of the Holocaust.
What role will we, as the future generation, play in shaping the narrative when
the survivor generation passes? The workshop will examine different Holocaust
memorials, literature, and film.
"It's Not My Problem: Why Get Involved?" — 3:00 pm
The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum presents a provocative panel discussion
that challenges us to think about the motivating forces behind individual acts
during the Holocaust. Who were the people who risked great personal danger in
trying to save friends, acquaintances, and strangers? What influenced the vast majority
of ordinary people to look away, do nothing, or comply with the Nazis? What can
we learn from these events as individuals and as a society?
This panel will be moderated by Rabbi Peretz Wolf-Prusan, and includes Museum
Historian William F. Meinecke, Dr. Philip Zimbardo of Stanford University, and
Dr. Samuel Oliner, author of Do Unto Others: Extrodinary Acts of Ordinary People.
Reading of the Names — 4:30 pm
By B’nai B’rith youth from our community
Yom HaShoah Program and Commemoration — 5:00 pm
The JFCS Holocaust Center presents the San Francisco Community Yom HaShoah
Program and Memorial Service. Join our community’s survivors and their families
for an hour of music, memories, and learning.
Sunday, April 7 | 1:30 - 6:00 pm | Free
JCCSF, San Francisco
Top: Jewish resistance fighters captured by SS troops (U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum); Middle: Morgan Blum;
Below: Philip Zimbardo (Photo: Rod Searcey)
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Co-sponsored by Jewish LearningWorks, Kevah, and Lehrhaus Judaica
Join adults from all denominations, levels of knowledge and observance in a
monthly learning community. Once each month a different Bay Area Jewish educator
will offer a class on a topic of his or her choice. We’ll match you with a topic of
your choice, such as the weekly Torah portion, Jewish ethics, Kabbalah or another
compelling theme guided by one of our source sheets. Bring your own hevruta
(study partner), or come by yourself. Engage and explore Jewish texts with Open
Sources educators as your guides. The faculty includes: Joshua Fenton (monthly),
David Kasher (January 8), Gavriel Strauss and Peretz Wolf-Prusan (February 12),
Shayna Orfus (March 12), Daniel Isaacson (April 9), and Joel Abramovitz (May 7).
Registration requested. More at jewishlearningworks.org
Five Tuesdays, January 8 – May 7 | 7:00 - 9:00 pm | Free
Jewish LearningWorks, San Francisco
Jewbilee 2013:
A Day of Learning and Celebrating Jewish Community
Jewbilee offers a broad range of thoughtful as well as authoritative perspectives
on the Jewish experience that encompass all forms of Jewish life and expression.
Presentations include lectures, workshops, and performances by Bay Area rabbis
and educators, as well as artists, performers, and authors, with special events for
children, film screenings, a teen zone, and more. Lehrhaus’ Rabbi Peretz-Wolf Prusan
is offering two workshops. The keynote speaker is world-renowned scholar Jonathan
Sarna, who will be discussing his new book When General Grant Expelled the Jews.
Community Events
Open Sources
Tickets and more details at siliconvalleyjcc.org/jewbilee
Sunday, January 27 | 1:00 - 8:00 pm | $10 / $7 for seniors and students
Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center, Los Gatos
Limmud Bay Area
Limmud is a conference, a festival, a gathering of Jews from all parts of the Bay,
from all walks of life, all Jewish backgrounds, all lifestyles, and all ages. Limmud Bay
Area is two+ days of lectures, workshops, text-study sessions, discussions, exhibits,
performances and much more, in a retreat like setting, over an extended weekend
— all planned and produced by a network of “volunticipators”. Lehrhaus’ Rabbi
Peretz Wolf-Prusan is leading two levels of Talmud workshops.
Tickets and more details at limmudbayarea.org
Presidents’ Day Weekend | Sunday-Monday, February 17-18 / Saturday night stay option
Asilomar Conference Grounds, Pacific Grove
The Manovill Conversations
LOADED: Jews & Money
Join us for lively, no-holds-barred conversations with leading journalists, intellectuals,
artists and rabbis, who will peel back the layers of stereotype, obfuscation and
shame to open an honest dialogue around a topic loaded with angst. The
series features Eliot Spitzer, Rabbi David Wolpe, Rabbi David Ellenson,
Robert N. Bellah, Matthew Yglesias, Daphne Merkin, and Todd Gitlin.
Tickets and more details at jccsf.org/arts
March 8 – May 28 | JCCSF, San Francisco
Top: Lone Cypress near Asilomar; Below: Rabbi David Wolpe
7
Ancient & Modern History
The Arab Spring: Middle East Politics
of the Past and Present
Jehon Grist, Ph.D., Professor Farid Senzai, and Professor Eran Kaplan
In January 2011, the self-immolation death of a Tunisian fruit-stand owner lit the
flames of revolt throughout the Arab world. In a region where absolute rule from
the top has been the norm for millennia, what triggered this unique wave of
democratic reforms, and where will it go from here?
These questions and more will be taken up by our series speakers. In the first session, Jehon Grist will explore patterns of rule in the Middle East from ancient times
into the 20th century. In the second session, Professor Farid Senzai will delve into
the processes that led to this revolution and its prospects for the future. We will
conclude with Prof. Eran Kaplan, Goldman Chair in Israel Studies at San Francisco
State University, who will discuss the challenges and opportunities Israel faces with
regard to the changing Middle East.
H350-TS | Wednesdays, January 30 - February 13 | 7:00 - 8:30 pm | $40 / $30 members
Temple Sinai, Oakland
Jewish Eastern Europe: A Family Journey
Professor Marc Dollinger
Co-sponsored by KlezCalifornia
Three profound stories animate Eastern European Jewish history. For centuries, the
Pale of Settlement served as the world’s center of Jewish life. In Russia, Poland, and
its neighboring (and ever changing) countries, Jews lived, studied, and developed
a vibrant Yiddish-speaking culture. The Shoah destroyed that world, with the vast
majority of its Jews murdered by the Nazis. Facilitated by the fall of Communism, a
new, third chapter is emerging, as a generation of hidden Jews seeks knowledge
about their Jewish ancestry.
This past summer, Professor Marc Dollinger journeyed with his family to six Eastern
European countries, a Bat Mitzvah trip that would enable his
daughter, Shayna, to learn what it means to have a Yiddish
name. Using pictures, videos, and stories from his trip, Dollinger
will discuss Eastern European history as well as current efforts to
revitalize Jewish life.
Thursday, January 17 | 7:00 - 8:30 pm | Free
Jewish Community Library, San Francisco
Presented by the Jewish Community Library of Jewish LearningWorks
Middle: Prof. Farid Senzai; Below: the Dollinger family outside of Chelm.
Opposite Above: Jerusalem Synagogue, Prague; Below Left: Cave for Qumrun
8
A Jewish Journey: The Beth Am Pre-Tour Course for
Prague and Israel
Jehon Grist, Ph.D.
We will preview the panorama of history, culture, and sites you’ll discover in both
Israel and the Czech Republic. Focusing on Prague, we’ll explore the dynamic
heart of Central Europe’s Jewry, from its birth in the 10th century to its near
extermination by the Nazis in the 1940s, closing with its renaissance over the last
30 years. Our virtual visit to Israel will span the centuries from the biblical era to the
vibrant Israel of today. For both countries, our course will include visual introductions
to most of the sites you’ll visit.
The class is open to students not part of the tour. For tour participants, an expanded
version of the course (with recommended readings) will be available on a flash
drive.
H205-BA | Tuesday, February 12 and Thursday, February 21
7:30 - 9:00 pm | $30 / Free for tour participants
Congregation Beth Am, Los Altos Hills
Discovering Biblical Israel: History, Archaeology, and
Dead Sea Scrolls
Jehon Grist, Ph.D.
This primer on Israel's biblical heritage will start with a visual overview of the timeline
of biblical era history, from the Patriarchs around 1800 BCE to the beginning of
Roman control in the 1st Century CE. In our second session, we'll travel to the most
important Biblical era sites for virtual walking tours, including Dan, Hazor, Megiddo,
Khirbet Qeiyafa, Jerusalem, and Beersheba. Our final session will introduce the
world of the Dead Sea Scrolls, with an exploration of the Scrolls village of Qumran,
and introductions to the key texts and controversies.
H250-ST | Wednesdays, March 6 - March 20 | 7:00 - 8:30 pm | $35 / $25 members
Congregation Shomrei Torah, Santa Rosa
9
Classic & Contemporary Texts
Excluded from Religious Authority:
Sorcery, the Source of Women's Power
Maggie Anton
Co-sponsored by JCC East Bay, Congregation Beth Sholom, and Congregation Beth El
Maggie Anton will talk about the research behind her new book, Rav Hisda’s
Daughter: A Novel of Love, the Talmud, and Sorcery. Set in Babylonia and Roman
Palestine during the third century, a critical period in the history of the four
monotheistic religions, this historical novel focuses on rabbinic families struggling
to establish new Jewish traditions in the aftermath of the destruction of Jerusalem’s
Holy Temple. At the same time, Zoroastrian Persia battles Rome fast becoming
Christian for world dominance. Against this backdrop, women excluded from their
religion’s hierarchy, including our heroine, find spirituality as enchantresses in the
very land where the word ‘magic’ originated.
Rav Hisda's Daughter, Book 1: Apprentice brings the world of the Talmud to
life from a woman's perspective.
Anton will be the scholar-in-residence at Congregation Beth Sholom in San
Francisco earlier in the weekend.
T300-CBE | Sunday, February 10 | 2:00 - 3:30 pm | Free
Congregation Beth El, Berkeley
Tasting the Talmud: A Talmud Circle Extravaganza
This is not a metaphor, its an
interactive lunch and learn! Yes,
come and eat the foods of second
century Tzipori, meet Judah HaNasi as
we recreate the world of the Mishna
in art, food, and literature. This special
event is open to anyone interested
in understanding the world of the
Talmud: its settings, personalities, and
customs.
T800-LJ | Sunday, January 20
1:00 - 2:30 pm | $10
Lehrhaus Judaica, Berkeley
Top: Maggie Anton; Below: 2011-12 Bay Area Community
Talmud Circle students
10
The Three Testaments: Torah, Gospel, and Quran
Rabbi Ruth Adar
The Three Testaments: Torah, Gospel, and Quran is a revolutionary book: the first time
that the Torah, the New Testament, and the Quran have been published in a single
volume. The texts and their accompanying essays appreciate the three Abrahamic
traditions as distinct entities, separate and beautiful in their differences as well as
their common elements.
This class will examine passages from each of the three great texts, as well as a
fourth source that the editor, Brian Brown, suggests may link the three: the
Zoroastrian tradition.
Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the first class.
T300-TS | Thursdays, April 4 - April 18 | 7:30 - 9:00 pm | $30 / $20 members
Wild Women of the Bible
Rabbi Carol Caine
The Hebrew Bible contains stories of some extraordinary women: Tamar, a seemingly
powerless widow whose bold trickery changed history; Deborah, a wise and
powerful head of state; Hannah, who asserted her right to pray as she wished;
and Yael, a fierce and courageous warrior. We will discuss how these and other
Biblical women claim power and the limitations of their power. We will also look at
midrashim, or imaginative reconfigurations of these stories, from both traditional
and contemporary perspectives. Please join us as we explore what these amazing
biblical women can teach us about our inner lives as women and men today.
T250-LJ | Thursdays, February 21 - March 7 | 7:00 - 8:30 pm | $35
What We Talk About When We Talk About
Nathan Englander
Co-sponsored by Jewish LearningWorks
Join us for a lively discussion about Nathan Englander's book What We Talk About
When We Talk About Anne Frank. We'll talk about the
individual stories and the collection as a whole.
This program is part of the Jewish LearningWorks One
Bay One Book project. Please read the collection prior
to our gathering so all attendees can engage in the
conversation.
Read reflections on the book from a variety of community
members, including "Story 8" by Rabbi Peretz WolfPrusan at jewishlearningworks.org.
T100-LJ | Tuesday, March 5 | 7:00 - 8:30 pm | Free
Right: Nathan Englander (photo by: Juliana Sohn)
11
Contemporary Issues
California Conversations: Farmers in the Bay
Sue Fishkoff, Lisa Gottreich, Scott Gerber, and Vivien Straus
Engage in the rich history of the Jews who came to the Bay Area to farm the land.
From the Petaluma chicken farmers to modern organic dairies, Jews have been
agricultural innovators in the Bay Area. In this lively conversation led by j. editor Sue
Fishkoff, join representatives of three generations of farmers: Scott Gerber, the Yiddish
Cowboy; Bohemian Creamery’s Lisa Gottreich, and Straus Family Creamery’s Vivien Straus.
This event is presented in conjunction with California Dreaming: Jewish Life in the
Bay Area from the Gold Rush to the Present, on view at the Contemporary Jewish
Museum.
Advanced reservations suggested at thecjm.org
Friday, February 1 | 1:00 - 2:30 pm | Free with museum admission
Contemporary Jewish Museum, San Francisco
Tzedakah's Roots Are in the Land
Deborah Newbrun
"Where there is no flour, there is no Torah; Where there is no Torah, there is no flour.”
—Pirkei Avot 3:17-21
Modern industrial farming methods have inflicted harsh, sometimes irreversible
damage on our environment. Hazon, America's largest Jewish environmental
organization, has focused much of its work on issues of food sustainability, food
justice, and food education. Deborah Newbrun, Hazon's Bay Area director, will
speak about her organization’s efforts to brand and promote the New Jewish Food
Movement through its food conferences and other programs. She will discuss how
we in the Jewish community can help to create healthier and more sustainable
farming systems, transforming not only ourselves but what it means to be Jewish
in the 21st century.
T200-BA | Wednesday, January 30 | 7:00 - 8:30 pm | $8 / Free for members
12
Is There Such a Thing as the Jewish People?
Rethinking Jewish Membership for a Global Era
With Osher Marin JCC Visiting Scholar Noam Pianko
What is “Jewish Peoplehood” and how is it changing in both the United States
and Israel? Tremendous intellectual and financial resources have been invested to
try to preserve the ties that connect Jews to one another. However, the assumptions
about what peoplehood is are unclear and based on outdated paradigms of
identity. Technological, social, and political transformations have altered the landscape in this global area and the theory of Jewish collectivity lags behind. These
talks will explore probing questions about peoplehood past, present, and future
to reassess the possibilities and limitations of Jewish identity today.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit marinjcc.org/visitingscholar.
The Problem with “The Jewish People”
One of the crucial issues facing Jewish life in the U.S. and Israel is the perceived
dissolution of “Jewish Peoplehood.” Is the problem that Jews today have rejected
their obligation to other Jews? Perhaps. But there is another possibility: existing
models of Jewish membership make assumptions based on outdated identity
paradigms with limited practical or moral relevance in an increasingly globalized world.
Thursday, February 7 | 7:00 – 9:00 pm | Osher Marin JCC, San Rafael
Friday, February 8 | 7:30 – 9:00 am | Il Fornaio, Corte Madera
Can Historical Models Expand the Possibilities for
Sustainable Jewish Life Today?
How did pre-modern Jews think about what connected Jews to one another?
We’ll explore the diverse meanings of the “Jewish People” before the social and
political transformations of the modern period. Long forgotten notions of Jewish
identity and solidarity can help us imagine new models of Jewish life today.
Thursday, March 7 | 7:00 – 9:00 pm | Osher Marin JCC, San Rafael
Friday, March 8 | 7:30 – 9:00 am | Il Fornaio, Corte Madera
Israeli Nation or Jewish People?
Zionism and the Transformation of Jewish Identity
Many of the assumptions about what it means to be a Jew today have been
shaped by modern theories of nationalism and Zionism. This lecture explores
how modern political thought transformed popular and scholarly conceptions of
the Jewish people.
Thursday, April 4 | 7:00 – 9:00 pm | Osher Marin JCC, San Rafael
Friday, April 5 | 7:30 – 9:00 am | Il Fornaio, Corte Madera
Is Peoplehood Possible (Or Desirable) in a Global Era?
Can (and should) the idea of a shared set of criteria linking all Jewish people
around the globe be preserved? The final lecture explores the possibilities and
limitations of making collective claims about Jewish unity and identity today.
Thursday, May 2 | 7:00 – 9:00 pm | Osher Marin JCC, San Rafael
Friday, May 3 | 7:30 – 9:00 am | Il Fornaio, Corte Madera
Opposite Top: Lisa Gottreich; Below: Deborah Newbrun; This Page Top: Noam Planko
13
Back to the Torah
Back to the Torah: The Book of Deuteronomy:
“And You Shall Love…”
Ken Cohen
This winter, we continue our study of D’varim: the Book of Deuteronomy. Moses,
speaking in his final addresses to Israel, expresses the essential nature of Israel’s
relationship to God: Shema Yisrael!
We will study the Shema, in depth, to understand its power as the statement of
faith of Israel for all time. We'll also examine just what it means to “Love the Lord
your God.” In fact, we will discuss the Bible’s concept(s) of love on many levels.
For the more aggressive, our chapters will also cover war, defiance, and the
soon-to-be conquered land of Israel.
This is not a weekly “torah-study” class, but an in-depth exploration of each chapter
and verse, uncovering the religious and cultural messages of the author, and the
historical context of the book’s composition and its first audiences.
Our class' methods are eclectic, including text-critical and literary approaches.
These are enriched by archaeological information and contemporary scholarship,
and are spiced and profoundly enriched with classic midrash and later Jewish
interpretations of biblical messages.
We will read and study in English with occasional references to the original Hebrew
(fully explained for non-Hebrew speakers). Class members will be expected to read
a chapter or so each week in preparation for class discussions.
Bring a Jewish Bible (Tanakh) to class. The more translations the merrier!
T106B-CCD | Thursdays, January 17 - March 21 | 7:30 - 9:15 pm | $150 / $130 members
Contra Costa Jewish Day School, Lafayette
Back to the Torah: The Book of Deuteronomy:
Of Kings and Kosher Meat
Ken Cohen
This spring, we focus on Moses’ third and final discourse in our study of D’varim:
the Book of Deuteronomy.
It is these chapters that zero in on Jerusalem as the future unique nexus of Jewry
and Judaism, presaging a three-millennium centrality of that city to the Jewish
world.
The concepts of biblical justice will be explored, and the nature of prophecy and
political leadership discussed. Deuteronomic conceptions of the calendar and
kashrut will also be addressed.
This is not a weekly “torah-study” class, but an in-depth exploration of each chapter
and verse, uncovering the religious and cultural messages of the author, and the
historical context of the book’s composition and its first audiences.
Our class' methods are eclectic, including text-critical and literary approaches.
These are enriched by archaeological information and contemporary scholarship,
and are spiced and profoundly enriched with classic midrash and later Jewish
interpretations of biblical messages.
T106C-CCD | Thursdays, April 4 - June 13
7:30 - 9:15 pm | $150 / $130 members
Contra Costa Jewish Day School, Lafayette
14
Charlie Varon
Award-winning playwright and actor Charlie Varon performs the latest in his series
of comic short stories about elderly Jews living in San Francisco.
"Charlie Varon’s short stories are deep, funny, thrilling works that illuminate what it
is to be alive and Jewish and American in the 21st century. They are a gift to the Bay
Area Jewish community and to the world." — Rabbi Dorothy Richman
The Arts
The Listener
Tickets at themarsh.org
Sunday, March 10 | 3:00 - 4:30 pm | $10-$35 sliding scale / $50 reserve seats
The Marsh Arts Center, Berkeley
The Drama of Yiddish on the Hebrew Stage
Dr. Donny Inbar
Co-sponsored by KlezCalifornia
Official Zionism frowned upon the spoken Yiddish of the Diaspora, fearing it would
interfere with the efforts to transform Hebrew from a frozen religious tongue into a
living secular modern language. At the same time, however, Yiddish culture maintained
a strong presence in Eretz Yisrael. Drawing from his own extensive research, Dr.
Inbar will share anecdotes, shatter some myths, pay homage to Abraham Goldfaden
(the father of Yiddish theater), and discuss the love-hate relationship between Hebrew
and Yiddish.
Thursday, January 10 | 7:00 - 8:30 pm | Free
Jewish Community Library, San Francisco
Presented by the Jewish Community Library of Jewish LearningWorks
Contemporary Art in the Middle East
A Lecture Series by Michal Gavish
Contemporary Art in Iran
Iranian imagery, which is traditionally colorful and imaginative, has developed into a
set of rich and bold contemporary expressions. We will explore the development of
the Iranian art scene in the past two decades, in spite of the many restrictions in its
way. We will place the current art within the context of the rich history of Persia/Iran
and examine Jewish aspects through the story of Purim.
This lecture will also be offered in Hebrew on Thursday, February 21 at 8 p.m. Both
Hebrew and English lectures will be in Room F-401.
Tuesday, February 19 | 8:00 - 9:30 pm | $18 at the door / $15 pre-registration
$12 members | Oshman Family JCC, Palo Alto
Contemporary Palestinian Art
This talk will survey the development of contemporary Israeli-Arab art in Israel and
abroad. We will discuss the thought process behind the making of Israeli-Arab art
and the immense variety of subjects and media that it covers with an emphasis on
its mutual relationship to Israeli art.
This lecture will also be offered in Hebrew on Thursday, April 25 at 8 p.m. Both Hebrew
and English lectures will be in Room F-401.
Tuesday, April 30 | 8:00 - 9:30 pm | $18 at the door / $15 pre-registration
$12 members | Oshman Family JCC, Palo Alto
Top: Charlie Varon
15
Jewish Music Festival
Opening Night at the Jewish Music Festival
The Past and Future of Jewish Music in Poland:
Polesya and Shofar
Shofar, Olga Mieleszczuk (Polesya), and Ruth Ellen Gruber
Join us for opening night of the 28th Jewish Music Festival as we explore the past
and future of Jewish music in Poland. We'll hear Polesya, representing music from
Poland's deep roots, and Shofar, a band of the contemporary moment.
Historically one of the most mysterious and wild regions in Europe, Polesya was
the ancient cradle of the Slavic people and a center of Hasidism. This unique
project of Olga Mieleszczuk is inspired by the repertoire of Mariam Nirenberg, a
pre-War Jewish folksinger born in this multicultural region.
Direct from today's Poland: Shofar brings a Polish twist to Jewish music, with a mix
of Hassidic cantorial “nigunim” or wordless melodies and free jazz. This is a great
introduction to Poland's contemporary Jewish scene.
There will be a pre-concert discussion with Ruth Ellen Gruber, an award-winning
journalist who specializes in contemporary Jewish life in Eastern Europe.
Tickets at jewishmusicfestival.org
Saturday, March 2 | 7:30 - 10:00 pm | $30
Berkeley Repertory Theater, Berkeley
This program is co-sponsored by the Polish Cultural Institute, Taube Foundation for Jewish Life and Culture,
Israel Center of San Francisco, Consulate of Poland, and Consulate of Israel.
A Special Tribute to Lyricist Yip Harburg
The Man Who Put the Rainbow in the Wizard of Oz
With Musical Theatre Maven, Bonnie Weiss
Although Yip Harburg’s name is not as easily recognizable as other lyricists such as
Lorenz Hart, Ira Gershwin and Oscar Hammerstein, his songs certainly are!
With composer Harold Arlen, he wrote the lyrics to the entire score of one of
Hollywood’s most beloved films, The Wizard of Oz. The American Film Institute
ranked one of its tunes, Over the Rainbow, the number one song to emerge from a
Hollywood film.
Harburg also penned the lyrics to the hit Broadway musical Finian’s Rainbow (with
composer Burton Lane). With Harold Arlen he wrote such classics as It’s Only a
Paper Moon, Happiness is Just a Thing Called Joe, and the Groucho Marx comic gem,
Lydia the Tattooed Lady. With composer Vernon Duke, Harburg penned the words
to the haunting April in Paris.
In this presentation, you’ll learn about Yip’s early years as a poor Jewish kid growing
up in the Lower East Side of Manhattan and how his struggles influenced his
creative vision. You’ll also get to see Yip, himself, performing many of his own
songs in an engaging and charming manner. What’s more, you’ll see performances
of his work by such legends of the stage and screen as Judy Garland, Ray Bolger,
and Groucho Marx, plus Tony Award winners Barbara Cook and Audra McDonald
Tickets at jewishmusicfestival.org
Sunday, January 27 | 2:00 - 3:30 pm | $15 / $12 members, seniors, and students
Top: Olga Mieleszczuk; Middle: Yip Harburg; Below: Bonnie Weiss
16
Veretski Pass
Join the 28th Jewish Music Festival for two workshops by Veretski Pass, an internationally
known trio that highlights Jewish music from the land where the Ottoman East
met Europe. Attend both workshops for $25. Tickets at jewishmusicfestival.org
Klezmer Music and Hazzones
The relationship of klezmer music and Hazzones (hazzanut — cantorial singing) is
one of mutual exchange. Hazzones makes use of klezmer motives and gestures
and klezmer music uses liturgical prayers and modulations. Because klezmer music
is seemingly more tolerant of change and quicker to absorb it, and because its
functions are more widespread than the prayer function of Hazzones, the process
of transformation occurs in an elliptical fashion. The promiscuity that klezmer
music exhibits in accepting musical gestures from outside of Jewish culture also
presents unique problems in the Jewish music field. This lecture will show in detail
how klezmer music transforms cantorial gestures into its own framework and how
cantors respond to this process.
Thursday, February 7 | 7:30 - 9:00 pm | $15 | JCC East Bay, Berkeley
Busting the Myth of Klezmer
What we call “klezmer music” today may differ radically from what it was 100 years
ago. Since the mid 1990s, stylistically specific music has been introduced into the
Klezmer scene from the regions of Hungarian-influenced Maramures, and Kalotaszeg
— regions that had perhaps little to do with what we used to call “klezmer.”
Following the lead of the Táncház movement of Hungary, first non-Jews, then
Jews began to redefine what were formerly considered the stylistic and repertoire
parameters of Klezmer music. In this lecture, we contextualize these processes
historically and then pose
questions as to what is
jjjaccurate in the relationship
between the promotion
and actual content of the
music of the participants in
order to distinguish what
is truth and what is hype.
The lecture will explore
processes common to
many types of music in
today’s landscape with the
hope of understanding the
mechanisms that serve to
alter musical styles in time.
Monday, February 11
7:30 - 9:00 pm | $15
Top: Cookie Segelstein;
Below: Veretski Pass
17
Intro to Judaism
Introduction to the Jewish Experience with
Rabbi Ruth Adar
These two classes are part of a three-unit series. The third part can be taken next
fall. Please visit the class website at jewishexperienceonline.com.
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 the
land. With that history as a backdrop, we will learn about the great texts of Judaism:
Tanach (Bible), Midrash, Talmud, the Prayer Book, and the Codes of Jewish Law.
I100B-CBE | Wednesdays, January 16 - March 6 | 7:30 - 9:00 pm | $95 / $80 members
Traditions of Judaism
There have been multiple expressions of Judaism since the days of the Second
Temple. In this class, we will study the varieties of Judaism in the late antique and
early medieval period, Ashkenazi Judaism, Sephardic Judaism, and the modern
streams of Judaism. We will also look at some of the elements that make Judaism
in America, in California, and in our local Jewish community so distinctive. The
class will finish with a look at food traditions in Judaism: kashrut (keeping kosher)
and other Jewish food traditions.
I100C-CBE | Wednesdays, April 3 - May 29 | 7:30 - 9:00 pm | $95 / $80 members
More Jewish Experience with Rabbi Ruth Adar
More Jewish Experience is a new series, designed to expand one's Jewish knowledge beyond the basics in the areas of Jewish prayer, Jewish texts, and Jewish
ethics. While it is designed as a follow-up to Introduction to the Jewish Experience,
all interested students are welcome.
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 see. Have you ever wished that you understood what
we are doing in the service? This class will examine the Friday evening Erev Shabbat
service as well as some of the key prayers. No Hebrew is required.
I150-TS | Thursdays, February 7 - February 28 | 7:30 - 9:00 pm | $50 / $40 members
Texts: Pirkei Avot
Pirkei Avot, the Sayings of the Fathers, is one of the most beloved portions of the
Mishnah. It includes ethical teachings and good advice from the ancient rabbis on
such diverse topics as business, government, and self-improvement. It's traditional
to study it during the Counting of the Omer. Join us as we read "Avot" and discover
old and new favorite passages. No Hebrew is required.
I175-TS | Thursdays, April 25 - May 16 | 7:30 - 9:00 pm | $50 / $40 members
This program is made possible with the generous support of Fred Isaac and Robin Reiner.
18
Dawn Kepler
Interfaith/intercultural couples often face difficult questions and decisions. Make
the process easier by engaging with other couples facing similar concerns. Create
an outline of how to approach a conversation with your partner that is honest,
caring, and supportive.
Exchange ideas about such issues as:
Holiday Observances — Which holidays will be celebrated in our home?
Dealing With Our Families — How will we talk to our parents about our choices?
Raising Children — How can we make sure our child is part of each of us?
Spiritual Concerns — How do we satisfy our needs and recognize our partner’s?
Cultural Differences — How do communication styles and familial expectations
impact our relationship?
There is a sliding scale. No one will be turned away. Contact Dawn at
dawn@buildingjewishbridges for reduced tuition.
P250-LJ | Wednesdays, February 20 - April 3 | 7:30 - 9:00 pm | $120 per couple
Joys and Challenges of Raising Jewish Children
in Interfaith Families
Dawn Kepler
For interfaith and intercultural families, and those who love them...
Children offer us the remarkable opportunity to become our better selves. They
challenge our assumptions, our patience, and our certainty. They also fill us with
pride, worry, joy and a reason to make sacrifices. In a generation that has tried to
balance freedom with discipline, children’s needs with parental desires, what are
the unique strengths and weaknesses of interfaith families? Join us for a discussion
of how to find your family’s comfort point including with religion. We’ll talk about
the challenges of parenting and the long term implications of the daily choices you
make for your children.
Discussion Series for Interfaith/Intercultural Couples
P250-OFJ | Wednesday, February 3 | 9:15 - 10:45 am | Free
Peninsula Temple Sholom, Burlingame
Asian and Jewish Panel: Hear Their Stories
Dawn Kepler
Hear a panel of local Asian Jews (born Jewish or converted) discuss the challenges
they meet daily and ways that we, their fellow Jews, can be better advocates, allies,
and family members. They'll share stories ranging from funny to frustrating. Join
us for a thoughtful and intimate conversation about how it feels to be Asian and
Jewish.
P250-SI | Sunday, May 5 | 10:00 - 11:30 am | $5 / Free for members
Congregation Sherith Israel, San Francisco
Opposite Top: Rabbi Ruth Adar
19
DIY Judaism: Let's Make Challah!
Dawn Kepler
Everyone loves the smell of baking bread or the taste of warm homemade bread
from the oven. Do you wish you could make delicious challah for Shabbat, but
don’t consider yourself a baker or are short on time? Join us in the kitchen, and
we’ll quickly put your mind at ease. We’ll talk about the secrets of baking, the
power of food as a part of ritual, and favorite recipes for challah. Everyone will go
home with a loaf of bread.
Register early as space is limited to eight participants. We'll meet in a private home
in Oakland; students will receive the address upon registration.
P200-LJ | Sunday, January 27 | 1:00 - 3:00 pm | $20
A Private Home in Oakland
This program is made possible with the generous support of Fred Isaac and Robin Reiner.
Passover Made Easy with Dawn Kepler
Not everyone who holds a seder grew up with Passover traditions. Dawn Kepler
will share tasty Passover recipes, shortcuts and tips for engaging children and
spouses of all ages in the holiday.
A300D-CMV | Thursday, March 14 | 9:30 - 11:30 am | $20
Congregation Kol Shofar, Tiburon
Cooking Jewish Whether You’re Jewish or Not: Passover
Dawn Kepler
Passover is the most observed Jewish holiday in America. The central element of
the holiday is the seder — a ceremonial meal with symbolic foods. Recipes and
rituals come together to build memories and strengthen family bonds. Most Jews
have warm, fuzzy memories of seders with their family.
This class is for Jews and non-Jews with all levels of experience. We'll cover how to
create a wonderful, festive meal for your family and friends, and help you make the
holiday more joyous, meaningful and delicious.
You must pre-register by March 6 so that we have enough food! For more information,
call Dawn at 510-845-6420 x11.
P150-BA | Sunday, March 10 | 1:00 - 3:00 pm | $25
20
Deepening Your Jewish Experience
Rabbi Menachem Creditor
Do you pray that you might be able to pray? Do you bless your food with gratitude
that a stooped worker picked it for you? Do you breathe in the rest of the Sabbath
with ecstatic peace? Or, do you just wish you could?
Join Rabbi Creditor to explore how you can deepen your personal Jewish practice.
We will explore three key areas: Shabbat, food, and prayer. Come exactly as you are
and honestly determine what you would like more of in your life.
P100-NS | Wednesdays, April 17 - May 1 | 7:30 pm | $20 / Free for members
Congregation Netivot Shalom, Berkeley
Secrets of the Sanctuary
Rabbi Andrew Straus
Have you ever been to a synagogue and have been too scared to just pop in? Or,
maybe you’ve been, but you don’t really know what all the parts are. Ease your
synagogue worries by learning the key elements of the service and the role of the
different ritual objects such as head coverings and prayer shawls.
Join Rabbi Straus and other inquisitive people to learn the secrets of the synagogue
sanctuary.
P150-TS | Thursday, February 7 | 7:30 - 9:00 pm | Free
Shifting Traditions
Dawn Kepler
Three interfaith couples take three different approaches to religion in their family.
Rabbis reflect differing views. Come see a short film, Shifting Traditions, and discuss the concerns and choices that are open to every interfaith couple in today’s
Jewish community.
This program is free but please RSVP by emailing Linda at catattack77@yahoo.com.
P200-TS | Sunday, February 10 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm | Free
Middle: Temple Sinai sanctuary
21
Below the Belt: Circumcision and Hatafat Dam
for Conversion
Rabbi Andrew Straus
When a man converts to Judaism, he must consider whether he will have a ritual
circumcision or the ceremony of Hatafat Dam (the ritual drawing of a drop of
blood). These procedures bring up a lot of confusion, concern, and even fear.
This program will clear up myths and answer questions such as: Why does Judaism
require circumcision? How is a mohel trained? Is he a doctor? What happens when
you are with the mohel? What exactly happens with an adult circumcision and
with hatafat dam? Is anesthesia used? Does it hurt?
The first 30 minutes of the program we welcome women to come and ask their
questions. Then all females will move into the social hall for refreshments while the
men have an all male discussion. A man who has experienced adult circumcision will
describe the experience and answer questions. A mohel, Dr. Joel Piser, and Rabbi
Andrew Straus will also be present.
P100-TS | Thursday, February 28 | 7:30 - 9:15 pm | Free
I Converted to Judaism, Can I Start A Tradition Too?
Male Converts Creating Jewish Family Rituals
Dawn Kepler
This program was conceived by a man who married a born-Jewish woman and
has worked to integrate his own Judaism into their marriage. We will explore
questions about negotiating and expressing a unique Jewish identity with family,
starting new family traditions, putting your own twist on celebrations, and saying
no, I want to celebrate this way. The goal is open and honest dialogue so that you
have confidence to put down your luggage and celebrate your budding Jewish
identity!
P250-TS | Thursday, May 9 | 7:30 - 9:15 pm | Free
Mysteries of the Mikvah
Rabbi Judah Dardik
What does it mean to "go to the mikvah" when someone converts to Judaism?
Traditionally, the mikvah has many uses, though most people think of the mikvah
in terms of conversion. The mikvah is a ritual pool where one immerses oneself in
a spiritual ceremony that makes one a Jew.
Join Rabbi Dardik and other curious individuals to see a real mikvah and find out
what happens there. Rabbi Dardik will cover other uses of the mikvah like koshering
dishes, preparing for significant events and the traditional Jewish ritual of family
purity. You can ask anything, so come on over!
P150-CBJ | Thursday, January 24 | 7:30 - 9:00 pm | $7
Beth Jacob Congregation, Oakland
22
Estelle Frankel
Co-sponsored by Kevah
Recent research from the field of positive psychology has shown what religious
traditions have always taught, that 'being good' is good for you. Virtues such as
gratitude, generosity, patience, compassion, equanimity, and humility have been
shown to contribute to a sense of well being and resilience. These findings have
inspired many practitioners to incorporate the cultivation of these core virtues in
their psychotherapeutic work.
Judaism also offers a treasure trove of teachings on this foundational inner spiritual
work known as tikkun ha'middot – the cultivation of character. In this four-part
seminar, we will study teachings from the Kabbalah and Musar traditions along
with contemporary sources that illuminate the inner journey towards wholeness.
MFT’s and LCSW’s can earn up to 6 hours of Continuing Education for attending
this series. PCE Provider #2550. ($10 fee for CEU certificate)
The drop-in fee for single sessions is $40, and by permission only. Call Lehrhaus at
510-845-6420 to be put on a list for session drop-in.
This is a continuation course from the fall, but new members are welcome to join.
P350-LJ | Tuesdays, February 12 and 26; March 12 and 19 | 7:00 - 8:30 pm | $100
Crown and Mystical Kabbalah
Spirituality & Kabbalah
The Spirit of Integrity: Exploring the Intersection of
Judaism & 'Positive Psychology'
Ira Steingroot
Beginning with a brief discussion of the meaning and definition of mysticism, we
will quickly focus on the unique characteristics and history of Jewish mysticism.
We will look at a variety of texts including the Sefer Yetzirah (Book of Creation),
Sefer Bahir and texts from the school of Abulafia before looking more intensively
at the great 13th century classic of Kabbalah, the Zohar. After an overview of the
architecture and literary qualities of this enormous library of esoteric books, we will
begin reading passages from the Zohar with an emphasis on understanding the
theosophical constructs of the book, how it views the life of God in the universe,
and how we are included in that life. Using the 10 sefirot of the Tree of Life as a key
should open up this abstruse and mythic text to any interested reader. We will end
with a reading of one of Rabbi Nachman's tales.
H400-TS | Wednesdays, April 17 - May 8 | 7:30 - 9:00 pm | $50 / $40 members
23
Hebrew
Hebrew with Rachel Valfer
Co-sponsored by Congregation Beth El, Congregation Netivot Shalom, and Congregation Beth Israel
Intermediate Modern Hebrew
This class is for individuals who can read and write, but have little or no knowledge
of Hebrew vocabulary and grammar. Learn to create simple sentences, verbally
and in writing.
Required text: Hebrew with Pleasure. Please purchase the book before the first session.
L200-CBE | Wednesdays, January 30 - April 3 | 6:30 - 7:30 pm | $150 / $135 members
Advanced Modern Hebrew
This class is for individuals with some knowledge of Hebrew vocabulary and
grammar. Students learn to read and understand short texts, improve their listening
comprehension, expand their vocabulary, and increase their speaking ability.
L300-CBE | Wednesdays, January 30 - April 3 | 7:30 - 8:30 pm | $150 / $135 members
Hebrew with Orna Morad
Co-sponsored by Congregation Beth Am, Congregation Etz Chayim, Congregation Kol Emeth, and
Oshman Family JCC
Level A2
Level C
Level A3
Level D
L105-BA | Tuesdays, January 8 - April 16
$225 / $210 members
6:15 - 7:30 pm
L300-BA | Tuesdays, January 8 - April 16
$225 / $210 members
7:30 - 8:45 pm
L150-BA | Wednesdays, January 9 - April 17 L400-BA | Thursdays, January 10 - April 18
$225 / $210 members
$225 / $210 members
10:00 am - 11:15 am
6:15 - 7:30 pm
Level B
Level E
L200-BA | Wednesdays, January 9 - April 17 L405-BA | Tuesdays, January 8 - April 16
$210 / $195 members
$225 / $210 members
7:00 - 8:15 pm
11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Advanced Conversational Hebrew
L500-BA | Thursdays, January 10 - April 18 | 7:30 - 8:45 pm
$225 / $210 members
Prayerbook/Biblical Hebrew
This is a continuation of the fall semester Prayerbook/Biblical Hebrew class.
Students continue to learn basic prayerbook vocabulary.
L100A-BA | Wednesdays, January 9 - April 17 | 5:45 - 7:00 pm | $210 / $195 members
See summer section for Orna’s summer courses.
Below: Orna Morad
24
Hebrew with Nirit Zach
Modern Hebrew I
Winter
L100A-SJ | Tuesdays, January 8 - March 12 | 6:15 - 7:45 pm | $185 / $175 members
Spring
L100B-SJ | Tuesdays, April 9 - June 18 | 6:15 - 7:45 pm | $185 / $175 members
Modern Hebrew I Matinee
Winter
L150A-SJ | Tuesdays, January 8 - March 12 | 10:15 - 11:45 am | $185 / $175 members
Spring
L150B-SJ | Tuesdays, April 9 - June 18 | 10:15 - 11:45 am | $185 / $175 members
Modern Hebrew II
Winter
Spring
Modern Hebrew II Matinee
Winter
Spring
Modern Hebrew III
Winter
L300A-SJ | Wednesdays, January 9 - March 13 | 6:15 - 7:45 pm | $185 / $175 members
Spring
L300B-SJ | Wednesdays, April 10 - June 19 | 6:15 - 7:45 pm | $185 / $175 members
Modern Hebrew III Matinee
Winter
L350A-SJ | Wednesdays, January 9 - March 13 | 10:15 - 11:45 am | $185 / $175 members
Spring
L350B-SJ | Wednesdays, April 10 - June 19 | 10:15 - 11:45 am | $185 / $175 members
Modern Hebrew IV
Winter
L400A-SJ | Thursdays, January 10 - March 14 | 6:15 - 7:45 pm | $185 / $175 members
Spring
L400B-SJ | Thursdays, April 11 - June 13 | 6:15 - 7:45 pm | $185 / $175 members
Top: Nirit Zach
25
Hebrew
Modern Hebrew IV Matinee
Winter
L450A-SJ | Wednesdays, January 9 - March 13 | 12:00 - 1:30 pm | $185 / $175 members
Spring
L450B-SJ | Wednesdays, April 10 - June 19 | 12:00 - 1:30 pm | $185 / $175 members
Modern Hebrew V
Winter
L500A-SJ | Thursdays, January 10 - March 14 | 8:00 - 9:30 pm | $185 / $175 members
Spring
L500B-SJ | Thursdays, April 11 - June 13 | 8:00 - 9:30 pm | $185 / $175 members
Hebrew with Ophira Druch
Hebrew in One Day
Join us for this three-hour introduction to Hebrew. Whether you are beginning
from scratch or needing a refresher, this course will teach you the aleph-bet,
vowels, and essential pronunciation and sight-reading skills. We'll prepare you for a
six-session Hebrew class beginning in March. See below.
L100-TS | Sunday, February 10 | 1:30 - 4:30 pm | $35 / $25 members
Beginning Prayerbook/Biblical Hebrew
This course introduces students to all the basic elements of prayerbook Hebrew:
the alphabet, vowels, vocabulary, sight-reading skills, and basic grammar. This
course also provides a strong grammatical basis and some of the vocabulary for
modern Israeli Hebrew. Start off with a preview course, Hebrew in One Day, on
February 10.
Required text: Prayerbook Hebrew the Easy Way.
L150-TS | Thursdays, March 7 - April 18 | 7:00 - 8:00 pm | $85 / $70 members
Intermediate Prayerbook/Biblical Hebrew 2B
This course covers the more complex features of the language commonly found
in biblical and siddur (prayerbook) texts. After a brief review of material covered in
the fall semester, we will continue to introduce features of the verbal system and
new grammatical components. Students will begin to translate simple biblical
passages and more lengthy prayerbook passages to develop reading and
comprehension skills. We’ll also read and translate a selection from the Hagadah
which will prepare us for the Passover seder. This course will also benefit students
seeking to brush up on established biblical grammar and reading skills in preparation
for more advanced work.
Prerequisite: Lehrhaus Judaica's Beginning Prayerbook/Biblical Hebrew 1B, or
equivalent.
Required text: Prayerbook Hebrew the Easy Way.
L200B-TS | Wednesdays, January 16 – April 3 | 4:00 - 5:00 pm | $140 / $120 members
Middle: Ophira Druch
26
Hebrew with Jehon Grist, Ph.D.
Congregation Netivot Shalom (Winter) and Congregation
Beth Israel (Spring), Berkeley
Co-sponsored by Congregation Netivot Shalom, Congregation Beth Israel, and Congregation Beth El
Beginning Prayerbook/Biblical Hebrew 1A-B
This class introduces students to all the basic elements of prayerbook Hebrew: the
alphabet, vowels, vocabulary, sight-reading skills, and basic grammar. You'll learn
some of the key prayerbook melodies and discuss the meaning of the prayers. In-class
instruction will include group practice with CD-ROM software (projected on a
screen) that speeds the learning process. This course also provides a strong
grammatical basis and some of the vocabulary for modern Israeli Hebrew. This
course is the continuation of Fall 2012 Hebrew 1A.
Required text: Prayerbook Hebrew the Easy Way, available at Afikomen Judaica.
L100AB-NS | Sundays, January 27 - March 24 | 3:00 - 4:55 pm | $115 / $100 members
$85 full-time students and learning for life (age 65+) / $75 for fall 2012 Hebrew 1A students
Intermediate Biblical/Prayerbook Hebrew 2C (Winter)
This course introduces the more complex verb patterns of classical Hebrew and the
irregular verb system, while building Hebrew vocabulary. Students will also translate
passages from the Hebrew Bible and learn to use Hebrew research references. Text
will be provided free of charge by instructor.
L200C-NS | Sundays, January 27 - March 24 | 5:00 - 6:25 pm | $100 / $90 members
$80 full-time students and learning for life (age 65+)
Advanced Biblical Hebrew 3
The Temple Before the Temple:
The Wilderness Tabernacle (Mishkan)
What was the Tabernacle (Mishkan)? Was it truly a tent shrine that traveled with
the Israelite tribes in the Wilderness? What happened to it when the tribes arrived
in the Promised Land? Was there more than one Mishkan? Did it really exist at all?
Drawing on recent archaeology, Near Eastern texts and history, we’ll reconstruct
the available evidence to discover what it may have looked like, how it was used
and what happened to it. In the process, we’ll translate key biblical texts that tell
its story, using Bibleworks 9 software to project onscreen and analyze Hebrew,
Septuagint Greek and Latin Vulgate biblical texts.
L310-NS | Sundays, January 27 - March 24 | 6:00 - 7:30 pm | $100 / $90 members
Right: Jehon Grist
27
Hebrew
Intermediate Prayerbook/Biblical Hebrew 2A (Spring)
The third semester of the introductory sequence of biblical Hebrew grammar, this
course covers the more complex features of the language commonly found in
biblical and siddur (prayerbook) texts. After a brief review of material covered in
the previous semester, we will continue to introduce features of the verbal system
and new grammatical components. Students will begin to translate simple biblical
passages and more lengthy prayerbook passages to develop reading and
comprehension skills.
Prerequisite: Lehrhaus Judaica's Beginning Prayerbook/Biblical Hebrew 1A-1B, or
equivalent.
Required text: Prayerbook Hebrew the Easy Way, available at Afikomen Judaica.
Please purchase the book before the first session.
L200A-CBI | Sundays, May 12* - June 23 | 4:30 - 5:55 pm | $80 / $70 members
Congregation Beth Israel, Berkeley
*The first session will be pre-recorded by the instructor and available for online
viewing at home. Registration before May 8 is required in order to receive the first
session, which will be sent May 12. The first in-person class is May 19.
Advanced Biblical Hebrew 3: The Mysterious Micah
Of all the minor prophets, Micah is among the earliest, most impressive, and most
mysterious. He was a partial contemporary of Isaiah, confronting the gloomy years
of the fall of Samaria (722-21 BCE) and the Assyrian threat to Judah. Portions of his
book reflect the impending doom of his time, but others race far into the future,
indicating that the Book of Micah, like Isaiah, grew as pseudepigraphers added
more material to the original text.
Our class will search out the original Micah, ponder his obscure and famous
sayings, and delve into his life and times, using Bibleworks 9 software to project
onscreen and analyze Hebrew, Septuagint Greek and Latin Vulgate biblical texts.
L315-CBI | Sundays, May 12* - June 23 | 6:00 - 7:30 pm | $80 / $70 members
Congregation Beth Israel, Berkeley
*The first session will be pre-recorded by the instructor and available for online
viewing at home. Registration before May 8 is required in order to receive the first
session, which will be sent May 12. The first in-person class is May 19.
Hebrew with Rabbi Me'irah Illinsky
Understanding Biblical Hebrew
Experience the Torah in Hebrew, and understand the meaning in its own idiom.
Immerse yourself in the biblical vocabulary and grammar and read the story in its
original form. We begin with Genesis 1:1, the first day of creation. The only
prerequisite is having learned the aleph-bet.
L125-SJ | Thursdays, February 21 - March 28 | 10:30 am - 12:00 pm | $60 / $50 members
28
Anna Elena Torres
All Yiddish classes on this page co-sponsored by KlezCalifornia
This class is a continuation from the fall semester of Beginning Yiddish, an introduction
to Yiddish language, literature, and culture. With particular focus on the basics of
Yiddish grammar, we will develop reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension
skills. In so doing, we will also have an opportunity to explore simple Yiddish songs,
stories, and dialogues as reflections of Yiddish culture and history.
Yiddish
Beginning Yiddish 1B
L150-BJ | Wednesdays, January 30 - March 20 | 7:00 - 8:15 pm
$105 / $90 if registered by Jan. 14 | JCC East Bay, Berkeley
Reading Yiddish Texts
Yael Chaver
In this course, we will read and discuss selections of Yiddish prose and poetry from
the 19th and 20th centuries. The class will focus on comprehension, based not only
on the lexicon and syntax of the Yiddish language, but also on the cultural contexts
in which the texts are embedded. Given the relatively late prevalence of standardized
spelling in Yiddish, some texts will be studied in their 19th and early 20th-century
versions to provide practice in decoding non-standard orthography.
Prerequisite: Students should have completed at least a year of college-level
Yiddish language or the equivalent
L350-BJ | Mondays, January 28 - May 6 | 7:15 - 9:15 pm
$180 / $145 if registered by Jan. 14
Intermediate Yiddish Part Two
Jon Levitow
This is a continuation of the fall semester's Intermediate Yiddish class. New students
are welcome, but the course will assume some ability on the student’s part to speak,
to ask others in Yiddish about themselves and objects in the world (the classroom,
work, home, and family) and to read and write simple Yiddish texts. Students should
be familiar with the Yiddish alphabet and also with basic grammatical principles.
L350-KE | Thursdays, February 7 - April 11 | 7:00 - 9:00 pm | $200 / $180 members
Congregation Kol Emeth, Palo Alto
Yiddish Women Writers in America
and Their Feminist Legacy
Shaina Hammerman
Co-sponsored by the Workmen's Circle/Arbeter Ring of Northern California
This course explores the selected writings (in English translation) of early 20th
century Yiddish-American women writers, and their mid-century Jewish feminist
successors. In the fiction and poetry of Kadya Molodowsky, Celia Dropkin, Tillie
Olsen, and Grace Paley, we’ll encounter the immigrant experience from a female
perspective. We'll examine how the writers depart from earlier Jewish literary forms
to critique or reiterate prevailing cultural modes and values.
Thursdays, January 31 - February 28 | 7:30 - 9:00 pm | $40
Congregation Sha’ar Zahav, San Francisco
Top: Anna Elena Torres; Below: Yael Chaver
29
Summer Program
Prayerbook/Biblical Hebrew Ulpan
Jehon Grist, Ph.D.
Want to 'read' the Hebrew prayers at High Holiday services? Want to start exploring
the Bible in the original Hebrew? Then this course is your first step. Starting with
the aleph-bet and vowels, you'll learn how to sight read Hebrew texts, pick up a lot
of the basic grammar, master key prayers and their melodies. But best of all, you'll
start to discover the Bible in its original language. We'll also delve a bit into the history
and archaeology of biblical Israel.
No previous Hebrew knowledge required.
L100U-LJ | Mondays and Thursdays, June 17 - August 5 | 7:00 - 9:00 pm | $295 / $270 if
registered by June 10 / $270 full-time students / $250 learning for life (age 65+)
$175 Dynamic Duos (ages 12-17, with parent enrolling)
Witness to the World of Jesus:
The Life and Times of Flavius Josephus
Jehon Grist, Ph.D.
Flavius Josephus stands as a towering figure who reported the first century world
of Roman and Jewish cataclysm with passion and some accuracy. He also stands
as a traitor to his own people, a claim that leaves a bitter taste among some writers
of Jewish history to this day. Josephus himself understood his own contradictions
and worked hard to defend his legacy as well as that of the Jewish People. Our
class will survey his major works and assess his achievement as an historian, including
his comments about earliest Christianity. We will also explore his Antiquities of the
Jews to appreciate his early commentary on the Hebrew Bible. Finally, we’ll use
archaeological discoveries to rebuild the world he inhabited and test the accuracy
of some of his claims.
To register at the specially reduced Lehrhaus tuition: psr.edu/summer
H210-PSR | Monday-Friday, July 15 – 19 | 1:30 - 5:30 pm | $200
Pacific School of Religion at GTU, Bade Museum, Holbrook Hall, Berkeley
Co-sponsored by Pacific School of Religion at GTU
Below: Flavius Josephus; Opposite Top: Joey Weisenberg; Opposite Below: Orna Morad
30
Singing Communities Intensive
Rabbi Dorothy Richman and Joey Weisenberg
Join music director and Ba’al Tfilah Joey Weisenberg and Rabbi Dorothy Richman for
four interactive days of energetic singing as we explore the connections between
Jewish music, prayer, spirit, and text.
For questions, please email singingcommunity@gmail.com.
P800-LJ | Monday, June 17 - Thursday, June 20 | 9:00 am - 4:30 pm | $700
$600 if registered by March 1 / $300 students
Summer Modern Hebrew with Orna Morad
Level A2
L105S-BA | Tuesdays, May 21 - July 30 | 6:15 - 7:30 pm | $170 / $160 members
Level A3
L150S-BA | Wednesdays, May 22 - July 31 | 10:00 am - 11:15 am | $170 / $160 members
Level B
L200S-BA | Wednesdays, May 22 - July 31 | 7:00 - 8:15 pm | $170 / $160 members
Level C
L300S-BA | Tuesdays, May 21 - July 30 | 7:30 - 8:45 pm | $170 / $160 members
Level D
L400S-BA | Thursdays, May 23 - Aug 1 | 6:15 - 7:30 pm | $170 / $160 members
Level E
L405S-BA | Tuesdays, May 21 - July 30 | 11:00 am - 12:15 pm | $170 / $160 members
Advanced Conversational Hebrew
L500S-BA | Thursdays, May 23 - Aug 1 | 7:30 - 8:45 pm | $170 / $160 members
31
Registration
Online registration encouraged: lehrhaus.org
Please register well in advance!
Courses with insufficient pre-enrollment may be cancelled.
Student Information
For additional students, provide same information on a separate sheet. Use the Student #2 line only for the same address.
Student #1: First Name_________________________________ Last Name________________________________________________
Student #2: First Name_________________________________ Last Name ________________________________________________
Street Address_ _______________________________________________________________________________________________
City_ __________________________________________________ Zip_ __________________________________________________
Home Phone _______________________________________ Work Phone_ ______________________________________________
Email________________________________________________________________________________________________________
 I wish to receive Lehrhaus Judaica’s e-newsletter.
I heard about the course(s) I am taking from... (check all that apply)
 Catalog mailed to my house  Catalog picked up at_ _____________________________________________________________
 Flyer  E-newsletter
 Ad (where?)_ _____________________________ Temple newsletter  Website  Friend  Rabbi  Other_ _______________
Course Enrollment
Need help? Call 510-845-6420, or email info@lehrhaus.org
I am eligible for the following tuition discounts, if available for the course(s) I have chosen:
 Learning for Life (age 65+) _ ________  Full-time student  Co-sponsor member (where?)_ _____________________________
 Dynamic Duos: Name and age if teen____________________________________________________________________________
 I am applying for a need-based scholarship. (For a scholarship form, please call 510-845-6420 ext. 10.)
Example
Course code here
Course title here
Fee
Course Code__________________________Title _ _____________________________________________________ $ ____________
_ __ Tax-deductible donation to help underwrite Lehrhaus’ courses and library $ ____________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Total $_ ___________
Payment
Information _________________
NOTE: Lehrhaus Judaica accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover.
Payment method:  Visa / Mastercard / AmEx / Discover _  Check enclosed (payable to Lehrhaus Judaica)
Credit Card Information: Card Type ___________________________________ Expiration Date _______________________________
Credit Card # _ ____________________________________________________ Security Code_ _______________________________
Signature_ _______________________________________________________
Mail your completed form and payment to: Lehrhaus Judaica, 2736 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, CA 94704. You may also register on the web: www.lehrhaus.org, by phone: 510-845-6420, or via fax: 510-845-6446. NOTE: Lehrhaus does not send confirmation of enrollment. If you require confirmation, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed
envelope or  check here to request confirmation via e-mail.
32
Tours
Lehrhaus – JCCSF
Jews, Blues, and Jazz
Jewish Life on the Mississippi from
Memphis to New Orleans
Photo: Institute of Southern Jewish Life
November 14-22, 2013
Jehon Grist, who holds a Ph.D. from
UC Berkeley in Mediterranean history
and archaeology, is executive director
of Lehrhaus Judaica. A university
professor and educator of adults and
children for 35
years and tour
leader for 16,
Grist produces
Lehrhaus' Digital
Classroom pretour courses.
Fred Rosenbaum, founding director
of Lehrhaus Judaica, is an awardwinning educator, teacher and author.
A specialist in American-Jewish history
and Jewish communities throughout the
world, Rosenbaum
has taught many
courses on the
Jews of the Bay
Area, New York,
and the American South.
In the land of bagels and grits, we will explore Jewish life in
the Deep South: its rich history from Colonial Times, the war
between the states, Civil Rights, and the new South. We will
enjoy the music, food, and hospitality that makes the Delta
home sweet home to a historic Jewish community.
The tour includes stops in Memphis, Tenn.; Cleveland, Greenville,
Indianola, and Greenwood, S.C.; Vicksburg, Port Gibson, Lorman,
and Natchez, Miss.; and New Orleans, La. Enjoy Graceland, the
National Civil Rights Museum, The French Quarter, visit local
synagogues, and much more.
Tour leaders: Fred Rosenbaum, Peretz Wolf-Prusan, and Ariel Goldstein
Rabbi Peretz Wolf-Prusan, senior
educator at Lehrhaus Judaica, has
been a Bay Area Jewish educator for
37 years. The national Covenant Award
winner offers innovative programs
throughout the
Bay Area, featuring
text study, family
education, and
retreats, and has
led many Israel
tours.
Ariel Goldstein, tour manager of
the JCCSF, was born and raised in
Uruguay and lived for 10 years in Israel
where he studied tourism at Hebrew
University. He speaks four languages
fluently and has
led tours on five
continents.
Lehrhaus – JCCSF
Israel at the Dawn of Modernity
January 21-30, 2014
Explore the Land of Israel through the lens of the Greco-Roman
period when Judaism and Christianity were young. Learn about
the emergence of an innovative, adaptive, and multi-faceted
Judaism where it happened. Walk in the footsteps of Rabbi Akiba
and Jesus, and their followers in the time of the Talmud.
The tour features learning opportunities with Israeli scholars in
the leading pluralistic centers of today: The Steinsaltz Center and
The Shalom Hartman Institute.
Engage in field study in Jerusalem, Katzrin, Qumran, Masada,
Caesarea, Acco, Tzipori, Bet She'arim, Tiberias, and the Sea of
Galilee.
Tour leaders: Jehon Grist, Peretz Wolf-Prusan, and Ariel Goldstein
Clockwise from top left: "Shabbat Cotton"
by Bill Aron; Gemiluth Chassed in Port
Gibson, Miss.; Mona Lisa of Zippori;
Capernaum
More info on both tours: agoldstein@jccsf.org or 415-276-1506
Special thanks to the Ingrid D. Tauber Philanthropic Fund of the JCF.
Lehrhaus Judaica
N on - Profit O rg
U . S . P ostage
Reutlinger Center
P
2736 Bancroft Way
A
I
D
P ermit N o . 13 5 3
O
ak
land ,
CA
Berkeley, CA 94704
What We Talk
When We Talk About
A
Nathan Engla bout
nder
More at lehrhaus.org
Sohn
Maggie Anton
discusses her new book
Rav Hisda’s Daughter
Contemporary Art in Iran
Contemporary Palestinian Art
Photo: Juliana
Roots
Tzedakah's and
Are in the L
:
versations
n
o
C
ia
n
r
o
f
Cali
the Bay
Farmers in

Front cover - Lehrhaus Judaica

Transcription

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