Gather with 30- to 40-something friends (must be over 21) to hear Maggid Singer reveal some of Judaism's connections to their sacred inebriant, alcohol, throughout the centuries. From references in the Torah to the outsized role Jews played in establishing and perfecting the most American of spirits—Bourbon—alcohol has maintained a steady presence in Jewish culture for millennia. How then did Jews get the reputation for being uninvolved in alcohol? What is kosher... Read more

In partnership with and at BASE-Bay, Rockridge

Come learn about the spiritual legacy and theology of Hasidism, a movement of mystical renewal founded in the 18th century whose fire continues into the present day. We'll pay special attention to teachings on devotion, prayer, community, ecology, and the possibility of finding the sacred in ordinary moments.

Wednesdays, January 10 and 31 @ 7–8:30, hybrid 

Grounded in Jewish values and concepts of what it means to be human, we will critically examine the intrusion of AI into increasingly more aspects of our daily experiences. Jewish teachings will provide a framework for critically determining if, what and when to engage with artificial intelligence applications.

Wednesday, February 21 @ 7–8:30pm, on Zoom

A screening of Yair Qedar’s documentary film on Spinoza followed by a panel discussion & refreshments. At the Dinner Room, GTU Library, Berkeley. Hybrid.

March 5 @ 5–7pm

This session is part of a five-part series called The Heretic in the Room. If you'd like to attend the entire series but cannot afford the full tuition you may contact programs@newlehrhaus... Read more

This three-session course will cover the history and lived experiences of Soviet Jews, their fight to leave for Israel and their current life in Russia. Beginning with the history of Jewish communities in Russia and the Soviet Union and widespread antisemitic laws, we will cover how Jews struggled to preserve their culture and to continue to exist as a Jewish community. We will learn about their fight for freedom, the Free Soviet Jewry movement and the great emigration of Jews and the social ... Read more

In partnerships with the Jewish Studies Program at UC Davis and the Centers for Jewish Studies at UC Berkeley and the Graduate Theological Union.

The 30th day of mourning (Shloshim) marks the end of the first month after a death, when the bereaved return to most daily activities, except parties and celebrations. We will gather to remember David ... Read more