CLINTON – Rabbi Eli Kornfeld of Chabad of Hunterdon County Jewish Learning Institute will offer a new six-session course called “Survival of a Nation: Exploring Israel Through the Lens of the Six-Day War” beginning at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 9, at 90 Beaver St.

One fateful week in June 1967 redrew the map of the Middle East, and 50 years later, Israel continues to face numerous existential threats.

Commemorating 50 years since the Six-Day War, the course invites participants to experience an account of what was at the time considered by many to be the most improbable victory in all military history.

“Traditionally, Jews maintain a fervent allegiance to Israel and also lobby against human rights violations around the globe” said Rabbi Kornfeld. “This course explores the compatibility of these two values, examining Jewish perspectives on controversial human rights accusations leveled against Israel and the BDS movement to Boycott, Divest and Sanction Israel.”

The course asks, if Judaism is a religion of ideas, why do Jews care so much about land, why does Israel perpetually raise the ire of the entire world, and what are the ethics of preemptive strikes and collateral damage? The course also inquires how Israel might protect itself against an enemy that uses human shields, and explores Jewish positions about Israel’s moral obligation concerning territories captured in the Six-Day War.

“In ‘Survival of a Nation’ modern history meets contemporary controversy,” said Rabbi Kornfeld. “The thrilling historic narrative raises questions about morality and the prospect of peace in the Middle East that began or were highlighted during the Six-Day war and remain unresolved.”

This course is designed to appeal to people at all levels of knowledge, including those without any prior experience or background in Jewish learning. The course is open to the public, and attendees need not be affiliated with a particular synagogue, temple, or other house of worship. Those interested in the course are invited to take the first class for free.

Interested students may call (908) 238-9002 or visit www.jewishhunterdon.com for registration and information.

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