Rabbi Tsipora Gabai & Jim Mavrikios: Judeo-Arabic and the Jews of North Africa (Zoom and In Person)

In partnership with Urban Adamah

Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia are located in the westernmost part of the Arabic-speaking world, so Jews (and non-Jews) from the region are known as Maghrebi, or “Western”. Interesting, when one considers that Moroccan Jews are generally included under the banner of the eidot hamizrach, “communities of the east.” Bridge east and west while learning about this vibrant Jewish community in our three-part series.

Session 1: Monday, October 2 @ 7–8:30pm on Zoom only
The Arabic language among Jews, the varieties of Arabic and its “dialects,” Arabic in Israel, etc.

Session 2: Monday, October 9 @ 7–8:30pm on Zoom only
Culture and religious practices of Maghrebi Jews: surnames, the kitniyot debate, Lala Sulika, foods
History: great rabbis, the mellah, mimouna, the kabbalistic tradition, Shabbat practices

Session 3: Monday, October 16 @ 6 – 8 pm in person only (includes a catered dinner at Urban Adamah, Berkeley)
Join us for delicious Moroccan cuisine and a henna tattoo!