Esther's story is exciting, romantic and disturbing. Set in the imaginary lavish court of the Persian king 2,400 years ago, it is an early example of anti-Semitism. Is there actual history here? Why did many Jews oppose its addition to the Biblical Canon? We will explore key parts of the text of the Book of Esther and its world, then fast forward to its ‘movie midrash’ - how Hollywood has interpreted the story.

Four-session series in partnership with Urban Adamah

In partnership with Urban Adamah

In partnership with Manny's, San Francisco

Part of our “What REALLY Happened on…” series

Part of “LEHRHAUS ALEHOUSE” at Beer Baron in Rockridge. First drink is on us!

The Mishna speaks of Tu Be’Av, an ancient matchmaking festival, one that disappeared until the modern period, when it was revived in the Land of Israel and in the Orthodox world. On the holiday, great rabbis pray, without charge, for unmarried men and women to find their mates. But who revived this festival? Neither Zionists nor Orthodox rabbis. Join us to discuss the role of a divorced woman... Read more

Eicha, “how,” is the first Hebrew word of the Book of Lamentations, and its Hebrew title. Lamentations is read on Tish’a B’Av, but what really happened/happens on the 9th of Av, Tish’a Be-Av?

In partnership with the Osher Marin JCC

Please join us for an immersive two-hour Talmud session in which the words of the rabbis will enable us to step into the upcoming cycle of holidays: Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Sukkot. This study session will support us in preparing for this sacred time and its potential for restoration and transformation.

Sunday, September 15, 10am–12pm