What might the Talmud have to say about real-world issues that we are facing today? Come and discuss selected texts from the Talmud to discover values and concepts — articulated by rabbis hundreds of years ago — to help us frame conversations about real-world, pressing social issues.

This is a 6 week course taught by our HUC rabbinic intern. Each session will be a stand alone topic. The class will be hybrid for those unable to attend in person and the zoom recordings will be available to those who register for the course for a limited time to enable you to catch up on sessions you miss.

Topics: 10/23 October 7 and Israel's hostage crisis: How does the Talmud frame the concept of redeeming hostages?

10/30 The Death Penalty- What does the Talmud say about using the death penalty and social justice?

11/6 The Value of Life: How does the Talmud view euthanasia and abortion?

11/13 Freedom of speech and due process- Were the rabbis of the Talmud interested in concepts we would define today as democratic?

11/20 The Duty to Rescue: What does the Talmud have to say about intervening to help others? Can or should you assume risks to help others?

12/4 What are core values of leadership in the Talmud? Does this ancient text offer us any paradigms for thinking about what to expect from our leaders?