The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) will present Curious Tales of the Talmud: Finding Yourself in the Legends of Our Sages, the institute’s new six-session Spring 2013 course that will begin during the week of April 22.

Rabbi Mendel Silberstein of Chabad of Larchmont and Mamaroneck will conduct the six course sessions at 7:30 p.m. on six Mondays beginning April 22 through May 27 at Chabad (921 W. Boston Post Rd., Mamaroneck).

“We'll explore the mystical dimension of the Talmud called the Aggadah, to uncover profound wisdom from some of the zaniest and most epic legends you’ll ever encounter,” said Rabbi Zalman Abraham of JLI’s headquarters in Brooklyn.

“This is a chance for the public to unravel layers of personal meaning from texts not usually available to non-scholars.”

In Curious Tales of the Talmud, participants will encounter legends of gargantuan sea monsters, impossible feats, anthropomorphisms, and riddles that challenge the foundations of the Jewish faith. In deciphering the meaning behind these strange episodes, students will discover secrets containing profound insights into the meaning of life.

“Whether you are fascinated by the Talmud and Jewish mysticism, or whether you are seeking a fun and meaningful experience, you won’t want to miss this course,” said Rabbi Silberstein, the local JLI instructor in Mamaroneck. “The material is as relevant as ever, promising to deepen the way we understand ourselves, our universe, and our relationships with the people we love.”

Like all JLI programs, Curious Tales of the Talmud is designed to appeal to people at all levels of Jewish knowledge, including those without any prior experience or background in Jewish learning. All JLI courses are open to the public, and attendees need not be affiliated with a particular synagogue, temple, or other house of worship.

Interested students may call 914-834-8000 or visit www.myJLI.com for registration and other course-related information.