English
Hebrew
French
Spanish
Most people, even the devout, struggle with beliefs about G-d. It is easy, for example, to affirm the basic tenets of Judaism during a prayer service, but when it comes to trusting G-d with our daily decisions, many share a secret, painful fear that G-d isn’t really looking out for them. Many of us have been brought up under the assumption that mainstream science is incompatible with our Jewish faith. So when we see compelling evidence for biological evolution, for example, we feel forced to choose between science and our faith. Wrestling with Faith was created to tackle questions like these—the “big issues” that keep people from an intimate relationship with G-d. The course acknowledges the often unspoken doubts and fears that all people share, and seizes their invitation for us to dig deeper for the answers.
Days to Celebrate: Demystifying Lesser-Known Festivals of the Jewish Calendar
During these trying times, everyone is looking for something to celebrate. Fortunately, the Jewish calendar offers us many such opportunities throughout the current season. This five-part miniseries will enrich your appreciation of these special days. Explore their history, discover their significance, and learn about the traditional observances associated with these days.
During this time of year, Jews around the world count each day for seven weeks to mark off the days left until Shavuot—the day that we received the Ten Commandments. Why do we count, and what does it mean for us? Is it just an ancient ritual, or can it become a contemporary self-help program that will dramatically improve our lives?
Join us for a discussion on the counting of the Omer and discover its life-changing formula for success. When performed correctly, the counting can become a daily regimen for self-refinement that will improve your relationship with others, your relationship with yourself, and most importantly, your relationship with G-d.
If you have procrastinated all your life, is it too late to change? If you haven’t talked to your sibling in decades, is there still a chance for reconciliation? If you have suffered an addiction for years, is there still hope for you? Join us on a journey of life as we explore the mystery of Pesach Sheni; a little-known festival that unlocks the secret of rehabilitation.
Why are there so many Jewish factions, and why is Jewish unity so hard to achieve? If we strip away the outer disagreements, what lies at the core of Judaism? This lesson will present biographical sketches of two great Jewish leaders, Rabbi Akiva and Rabbi Shimon bar Yocha’i. We will explore the tensions of the Jewish people in their times and discover the balance that lies at the core of Judaism and of Jewish unity.
If Abraham already knew the Torah and taught it to his children, what did we receive at Sinai? This lesson will demonstrate that G-d did not give us the Torah at Sinai; He gave us Himself. We did not give G-d our commitment at Sinai; we gave Him ourselves. G-d was thrilled at Sinai to learn that He matters to us. We were thrilled at Sinai to know that we matter to Him.
No matter how quickly society reopens, we are not likely to enjoy large gatherings this Shavuot and will likely need to do it at home. Shavuot includes delightful traditions such as adorning the home with flowers and enjoying dairy treats, and somber customs such as studying Torah all night and Yizkor—remembering our loved ones. It includes rules that are unique to Shavuot and others that are common to all Jewish holidays. We will present and explain these traditions and empower you to do it yourself.
Cultivating Character: Life Wisdom from the Ethics of Our Fathers
Pirkei Avot - Ethics of Our Fathers is a compilation of timeless aphorisms from the sages of old, offering Jewish wisdom on life, morality, and character development. Continuing the ancient tradition of studying its chapters in the weeks between Passover and Shavuot, this miniseries brings the poignant teachings of Ethics of Our Fathers to life, allowing its messages to resonate with participants and inspire personal growth.