This class is for the student reading Torah for the first time as well as for the experienced student who is seeking a fresh encounter with the text.
We will start at the beginning, Genesis, exploring the stories of the Torah one by one through close reading in English, consultation with classical commentary and group discussion. The student will deepen familiarity with the text itself as well as hone the art of its interpretation. An emphasis on finding contemporary relevance through the intuitive wisdom inherent in each student will guide our discussion.
Duration: 7 weekly sessions on Saturday afternoons Time: Location: to be announced Cost: $125
Jewish Meditation, Practice and Theory
Meditation helps develop intentionality, or Kavanah in Hebrew, the pathway to spiritual awareness and inner well-being.
This class will focus on two simple practices. A breathing exercise that embodies God’s ineffable name, YHVH. And a focus practice on the Kabbalistic image of Kav Einsof, the Infinity Line. Textual review will lead to group and individual practice. Breathing, calming and focusing skills will be explored. Previous experience in meditation, Hebrew or Judaism are helpful but not required. 50% instruction and discussion 50% group practice.
Duration: 7 weekly sessions on Saturday afternoon. Time: Location: to be announced Cost: $125
Instructor Rabbi Reuben Modek
Kabbalah For The Post Modern
Through close reading and discussion of "Credo For A Modern Kabbalist" by the late Rabbis Zalman Schachter Shalomi participants will explore a path of authentic spirituality based on the time tested philosophy of Kabbalah.
Kabbalah is the ancient Hebrew art of soulful living. Its teachings inspire a knowing of our inner and outer realities including that of the natural world. "Ashrei, Deep Happiness, the sense of health and holiness that comes from 'standing' in the Presence..." (Credo) is the attainment desired by the student of Kabbalah, according to Rabbi Schachter.
During this course we will shatter myths about spirituality that hinder us and reconnect with the simple magic of reality that defines our life's meaning. The Kabbalistic Tree of Life (ten Sefirot) will be reviewed. Participants of all backgrounds and faiths are welcome.
Duration: 7 weekly sessions on Saturday afternoons Time: Location: to be announced Cost: $125
Instructor Rabbi Reuben Modek
About Rabbi Reuben Modek Rabbi Reuben Modek serves as Director for Hebrew Learning Circles. Ordained by the Aleph Rabbinical Program and by the Academy For Jewish Religion, New York, he has served as Rabbi and Educational Director for Renewal and Conservative communities since 1990. A native Israeli, Rabbi Modek has taught programs on Jewish text and spirituality in Israel, England, Germany and the US. He serves as a Founding Co-Director of Educating For Spirituality, a Project of Aleph Alliance For Jewish Renewal.