LESSON 2: DECIPHERING CODE Our study of Torah is not limited to the passive transmission of received teachings. Through a sophisticated system of interpretation, we are able to apply the Torah to new circumstances and technologies. This explains why an ancient Torah remains relevant to this very day. What are the rules for interpreting the Torah and deriving new applications? Who is tasked with deriving new concepts and rulings? And how great a role does human innovation play in this proce

Our Sunday class has been running for almost twenty years — but it’s never too late to join! Each week’s lesson stands on its own, so you can jump in anytime.

The class meets in person with a Zoom option available.
No RSVP needed — just hop on and join the conversation!

LESSON 3: POWER OF THE PEOPLE The rabbis loom large in Jewish tradition; they have the authority to legislate new laws in addition to clarifying divine laws. Does G-d always concur with their decisions? Are there limits to what the rabbis can legislate? In which way are rabbinic enactments different from biblical law? On the other end of the spectrum, what about the power of the people? What happens if a rabbinic enactment proves to be untenable for the masses? And do the behaviors and traditions that originate with the masses enjoy any legal or spiritual standing?

Our Sunday class has been running for almost twenty years — but it’s never too late to join! Each week’s lesson stands on its own, so you can jump in anytime.

The class meets in person with a Zoom option available.
No RSVP needed — just hop on and join the conversation!

LESSON 4: POINT AND COUNTERPOINT For many, Talmud is synonymous with debate. It is indeed a matter of fact that Jewish law abounds with disagreements and dissenting opinions. Does that mean Jewish law is just a matter of opinion? Furthermore, do the debates indicate that the system is not divine? How can there be multiple opinions in a G-d-given Torah? Is Talmudic debate unfortunate or ideal? Lastly, how is a final halachah determined in the event of differing opinions?

https://www.jewishwallingford.org/tools/events/register_cdo/eventid/21851#:~:text=It%27s%20not%20your,Kiddush%2DSponsorship.htm

Our Sunday class has been running for almost twenty years — but it’s never too late to join! Each week’s lesson stands on its own, so you can jump in anytime.

The class meets in person with a Zoom option available.
No RSVP needed — just hop on and join the conversation!

Our Sunday class has been running for almost twenty years — but it’s never too late to join! Each week’s lesson stands on its own, so you can jump in anytime.

The class meets in person with a Zoom option available.
No RSVP needed — just hop on and join the conversation!