Not everyone can walk the land, but we can all visit it from the comfort of our homes. This series will take us on a tour of the history, people and sites of Israel, and how these stories are relevant to us today. Each session combines a site visit with text as well as Jewish practice and values to elucidate how Israel can help us better understand ourselves and our Judaism.
This class is taught by Rabbi Estrin and will be held on zoom.
Jan 8 - Jerusalem - Reflections with Yehuda Amichai
Struggle with some of Israel’s challenges through one of the most important Israeli poets of his generation. Explore how his poetry contains an honest look at both joy and pain, then reflect upon those same themes today.
Feb 12 - Masada - A Date with Life
Discover intrigue, debate, and modern miracles at this desert fortress as we reflect on the Masada Myth. Learn how these values played a part in the story of Methusaleh, and how they infuse our lives today.
Mar 5 - Tzippori - To Go or Not To Go
Since the time of Abraham, the Jewish people have talked about living among. How much do we integrate and where do we draw a line? Together we will how explore our various ancestors found a balance in daily life between living as a minority and preserving Judaism.
April 9 - Robinson’s Arch - From the Four Corners of the Earth
Connect with the past present and future and Jews from around the globe under Robinson’s Arch on the Western Wall. Feel the hearts and souls of generations past as we come to understand the Shema in a deeper way.
May 14 - Shavuot in Jerusalem - Then and Now
Stand in radical amazement as the sun begins to rise on Shavuot along the Western Wall. Explore the celebration of Shavuot in the past 100 years throughout Israel. Understand how the return to the Old City in 1967 changed the way we observe this all-night holiday.
June 11 - Ketef Hinnom Graves - And You Shall Be a Blessing
Feel the power of God through the words of the Priestly Blessing and the protection of God. Discover one of the most unexpected finds of the 20th century at this First Temple period grave. Stand overlooking the Old City in Jerusalem and explore how yesterday’s blessings can play a part in our lives today.
