Spring 2016: The Jewish Course of Why? 

 

Give your Judaism the intellection it deserves as you discuss and debate the most quizzical, controversial, and seemingly-unanswerable questions about Jewish belief and practice.

No religion is known for its rational basis and its welcoming of questions and intellectual debate quite like Judaism. As Jews we understand that curiosity is the greatest impetus for learning, and that our propensity to question is what propels us to constantly explore new ideas and discover new insights. Nowhere is this more apparent than in The Jewish Course of Why.

In preparing for this course, we asked 30,000 people for their biggest questions about Judaism. We selected the most popular among them and addressed each one with resonant insights from the greatest minds in Jewish history.

The Jewish Course of Why spans a diverse range of topics, from fun, light, and off-the-beaten-track questions, to more complex and controversial issues. Ever wondered why there are so many Jews in Hollywood? Why Jews eat gefilte fish and cholent and wish each other mazal tov and l'chaim? Why the Bible sanctions slavery and animal sacrifices? What is the cause of antisemitism? What does Judaism say about Christianity? About the role of women in Jewish life? You will also gain insight into mysterious Jewish practices, strange biblical narratives, and enigmas of Jewish identity.

Join us for Six Wednesdays 
Starting February 10, 2016
7:15-8:45 p.m.

Location: 
HCW-Chabad
15 Edgefield Ave.
Milford, CT

Fee: 
$79 (textbook included) 
Couples' discount $125
Join the first class free (with no obligation to continue)

For more information, call or send us an email: 
Call: 203.878.4569
Email: Rabbi@JewishMilford.com 
 

Dr. Lawrence H. Schiffman
Professor of Hebrew and Judaic Studies; Director, Global Network for Advanced Research in Jewish Studies, NYU

This course will provide participants with a deep understanding of numerous traditional Jewish practices and customs and their historical context, and should greatly increase their appreciation for the unending intellectual quest that is a major part of Jewish life.

Dr. Lisa Aiken 
International Lecturer, Psychologist, Author of 11 Books

I wish that such courses had existed when I started learning about Judaism. What a wonderful way for beginners as well as people with much background to expand their knowledge of Judaism.

Michael Medved
Nationally Syndicated Talk Radio Host

This exciting and substantive course will provide a more fulfilling perspective, answering the troubling questions that many of us are reluctant to even ask.
   

2016: Strength & Struggle

When you experience burnout,
HOW DO YOU REKINDLE THE FLAME?

When you're overcome by emotion,
HOW DO YOU GAIN PERSPECTIVE?

When you're caught in the cyclone of routine,
HOW DO YOU MAKE PROGRESS ON THE GOALS MOST IMPORTANT TO YOU?

Nothing ought to be more important to us than our personal values—the treasured traits that guide our lives.

In Strength and Struggle we unlock the secrets of great character by exploring some of the most dramatic narratives and inspiring personalities in all of history. Set in the midst of our nation’s formative years, an era in which our ancestors fought to carve out a civilization among hostile neighbors, these thrilling tales of judges, kings, and prophets reach into the essence of the human condition. Their heroes and antiheroes teach us eternal lessons of struggle and triumph, courage and humility, hope and resilience.

You will walk away from this course with an enhanced knowledge of the books of the Prophets and the dramatic events that comprise a significant portion of our nation’s history. You will have gained an opportunity to think deeply about yourself and the values that are most important to you.

And more importantly, you will be a stronger person, empowered by its lessons to overcome—and even grow from—the challenges that life throws your way.

 

Join us for Six WEDNESDAYS
Starting MAY 11, 2016
7:15-8:45 p.m.

Location:
Chabad of Milford
15 EDGEFIELD AVE.
MILFORD

Fee:
$79 (textbook included)
$125 Couples discount!
Join the first class free (with no obligation to continue)

For more information:
Call: 203.878.4569
Email: Rabbi@JewishMilford.com

1. JEPTHAH Gaining Perspective

What propelled him to do the unthinkable-to sacrifice his own daughter? Emotions often cloud our judgment. How do we gain perspective at such times? This lesson examines Jephthah's failures, exploring alternative ways in which he might have dealt with his situation, and how we can respond when facing similar circumstances.

2. SAUL Qualities of a Leader

What are the signature strengths that make a person great? What is the difference between being smart and being wise? In the story of our ancestors' quest to install their first king, we dissect Saul's character, his humility and wisdom, and the key weakness that led to his downfall.

3. RUTH Commitment and Sacrifice

What comforts and freedoms should we be willing to sacrifice to get the job done? The story of Ruth contrasts leaders who forsook their duties, with those who understood the meaning of responsibility, and who demonstrated courage to let go of everything dear to them to do what is right.

4. DAVID Dealing with Mistakes

At what point should we forgive ourselves for our mistakes (and others for theirs)? How do we transform a blunder into an impetus for growth? The saga of King David and Bathsheba has attracted much attention over the ages, but what interests us more than what he did, or why he did it, is understanding how King David dealt with his mistake.

5. ELIJAH AND ELISHA Simplicity

Motivation and passion are critical to living life to its fullest. What do we do when our zest for life is depleted? How do we find inspiration then? While Elijah may be the more famous of the mentor-protege pair, this lesson emphasizes Elisha's human care and attention to detail, over Elijah's large-scale, grandiose miracles.

6. JONAH A Rendezvous with Destiny

What is your mission in life? How much time do you spend on routines, at the expense of your goals? We examine Jonah's motive for defying G‑d's instructions, to the point of attempting suicide. Is it ever justified to sacrifice the means entirely for the sake of achieving our goals?