Part of the "Soil to Soul: Agriculture and Jewish Culture" series

Sunday, June 4 @ 3–4:30pm, in-person at Urban Adamah

Rabbi Judy Shanks and Dr. James Gracer (married for 44 years) join forces to bring a psychological lens to our Biblical ancestors. We will explore together hidden motivations, possible diagnoses, and complicated relationships between siblings, spouses, G-d, and humans. Teachings and discussions will draw on both classical midrashic texts and modern psychological theories. Channel your inner Freud!

In partnership with Beth Jacob Congregation, Oakland

On Tu Be'Av (the fifteenth of Av), "the daughters of Jerusalem would go out and dance in the vineyards. And what would they say? 'Young man, lift up your eyes and see—whom would you choose.'" (Talmud, Ta'anit). Learn about the holiday and dip into romantic love stories from the Bible and Midrash.

Part of Chew-ish & Jew-ish: Lunch & Learn at Manny’s Café. 

In partnership with Congregation Sha'ar Zahav in San Francisco.

Many scholars regard King Josiah of Judah (ca. 640-609 BCE) as the founder of a strict one-G-d religion for his kingdom which previously worshipped YHWH but also allowed for other deities. His revolution was both consequential and violent, and paved the way for one of the key precepts of Judaism: monotheism.

In partnership with Congregation Kol Emeth and Congregation Beth Am

“When two sit and study together, the Shechina dwells among them.” (Pirke Avot) Judaism’s unique mode of study is called “chavruta”—from the Hebrew root, “chaver” meaning friend. Friendship is inherently about learning—from another, about oneself, about the world beyond oneself. We will explore what Jewish sources teach about friendship. This course is best experienced when shared with a friend, so bring a friend to be your study partner!

In partnership with Cong. Etz Chayim, Palo Alto

Explore the book of Genesis: major themes, style, character, and authorship. Topics include: Origins, Ancestors, Jacob's Family, and Joseph and His Brothers. We will also consider Genesis within the broader context of ancient Near Eastern literature. The recommended translation is Robert Alter, Genesis: Translation and Commentary.