What does it mean to be a Jew, in this highly charged moment?
We find ourselves in a historic crisis. And yet, the Hebrew word for crisis or breakdown, (mashber) also means "birth stool". The challenges our people have faced, have long compelled us to tap into new depths of inspiration, vitality and creativity, and the current situation can also be such a moment.
You're warmly invited to join Rabbi Daniel, as we examine and re-create what it means for each of us live in connection with the Jewish People, Judaism, and the Jewish State.
Together, we will meditate, study and discuss inspiring texts, including many from our Chasidic Masters and Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook, which relate to these very questions.
We will then take time for silent reflection upon, and/or expression of, the new possibilities and ideas inspired by our explorations in writing, drawing, etc, or any other media that call to you.
Subjects we will consider, in light of our present reality, include:
Particularism / tribalism and universalism
The relationship(s) between Jews, the Jewish People and humanity
Unity, Diversity and Pluralism within the Jewish People - left and right, secular and religious, progressive and traditional
Peace and Wholeness - Shalom as a vessel which can hold opposites
Synergy and tensions between our individual needs and narratives, and those of the Jewish People
Our evolving individual relationships with the focal points of our collective consciousness and existence: the Land of Israel, Jerusalem, the Temple
Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) and redemption - the Jewish role in perfecting the world, and our own place in that story.
All texts are provided with clear line-by-line translations, and no prior knowledge or experience with the subject matter is necessary. This course is open to novices and advanced learners of all backgrounds and levels.
How does it work?
This course is an 8-class journey.
The classes are recorded and participants can watch to the recordings of the classes at any time they like.
Each class includes:
1) A printable handout of Jewish textual sources, provided in full translation with introductory comments and guiding questions.
2) A recorded class, in which Rabbi Daniel provides background information, explanation, close reading, critical analysis and practical ideas for applying the teachings in our day-to-day lives.
3) Prompts for silent reflection, creative writing, drawing, or whichever other practices are helpful for you, to explore meaningful questions about the above-mentioned themes.
Registrants gain lifetime access to all the course materials.
Testimonials
Surprising, challenging and highly rewarding. These were some very difficult issues and R Daniel imparted so much sensitivity and inclusivity to them and brought a stunning range of Jewish responses showing how they have been addressed throughout the ages. Superb.
- Dr. Harrie Cedar
The class was so well balanced between text learning and creative expression. I appreciated exploring Rav Kook's texts. One which sticks with me is, "Shalom is the unification of all opposites..." It reminds me that in this world we must listen to divergent opinions to find the light of truth.
- Sue Gurland
Rabbi Daniel's course Jewish Identities came just at the right time for so many of us struggling with the events of and since October 7. I learned so much from the wide breadth and depth of the teachings, enjoyed the space to respond creatively to them, and greatly appreciated Rabbi Daniel's wisdom, kindness, and generosity.
- Diane Gottlieb
The course has supported me in this shaky period, when so much uncertainty and changes are occurring outside of me and inside of me. The teachings and time for expressions contributed to hearing all the different inner voices and I started experiencing a shift, a transformation. While there is still much uncertainty in the outside world, I was able to reconnect with myself and the multitude of layers of experiences, and walk a step closer to being at home within and without.
- Yael Hajos