This question is what drove Rabbi Shaya Gopin of Chabad of Greater Hartford to offer the course “Communication: Its Art and Soul” in West Hartford. The first installment of the six-session course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute began Jan. 22. The course takes place Mondays through Feb. 26, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Chabad of Greater Hartford, 2352 Albany Ave. in West Hartford.

“Can you think of a more timely and pervasive issue?” asked Gopin. “Many people take communication for granted, but it is the very fabric of our society.”

“Jewish wisdom includes many powerful and original insights into the art of communication that are more relevant today than ever.”

“In Jewish philosophy, communication is more than just a tool: it is who we are. Humans are defined as communicative beings with a communicative soul. In Communication: Its Art and Soul, we contrast Jewish thought with scientific discovery to unearth the essence of communication and how to utilize its powers to better ourselves, our relationships, and all of society,” reads a description of the course on Chabad’s website.

The course has received rave reviews from relationship professionals, including Harville Hendrix, founder of IMAGO Relationship Therapy and author of the best-selling book, Getting the Love You Want. Hendrix refers to the course as “truly artful and soulful — an absolute must.”

“The integration of these two streams of knowledge — the secular/psychological and Jewish tradition — is remarkable,” writes Mona Fishbane, former director of couple training at Chicago Center for Family Health, endorsing the course. “The approach is sophisticated, practical, and sure to be helpful to students.”

Medical and mental health professionals, including social workers and family therapists, can earn up to 15 continuing education credits for attending the course.

Like all JLI programs, this course is designed to appeal to people at all levels of knowledge, including those without any prior experience or background in Jewish learning. All JLI courses are open to the public.

Interested students may call 860-232-1116 or visit www.ChabadHartford.com/Course for registration and for other course-related information.

The fee for the series is $99.