Beth Am University

Class Descriptions

The Prime Ministers of Israel: Leadership, Legacy and Influence

Instructor: Rabbi Jeremy Barras and Judge Roy Altman

The intricate tapestry of Israeli politics have shaped the nation’s trajectory since its establishment in 1948. Study the leadership styles, political philosophies, and visions from the nation’s founding father, David Ben-Gurion to contemporary leaders like Benjamin Netanyahu and Naftali Bennett. Explore pivotal moments in Israeli history and how each leader’s decisions have influenced Israel’s development.

Tales of Wisdom: Exploring the Stories of the Talmud

Instructor: Rabbi Rachel Greengrass

Dive into the rich tapestry of the Talmud as we unravel the captivating stories that blend humor, moral lessons, and profound insight. Students will gain an understanding of Jewish thought, ethical reasoning, and storytelling as a means to convey wisdom all while discovering how these narratives continue to resonate in contemporary life. Learn how these ancient tales become timeless teachings!

Reform Responsa: Answering today’s most pressing ethical questions in a modern Jewish context

Instructor: Rabbi Jaime Aklepi

Responsa is an age old practice of seeking authoritative answers to life’s most difficult questions. Reform Responsa is the dynamic process of interpreting Jewish law (Halakha) within the context of modern society. We will examine key responsa (responses) issued by prominent Reform leaders addressing issues such as fertility, gender equality, interfaith marriage, environmental ethics, inclusion, technology, social media and others. We will uncover how Jewish law continues to evolve in response to an ever-changing landscape of contemporary life. What will your answer be?

Echoes Through Time: Jewish Music and Cultural Development

Instructor: Dr. Alan Mason

Jewish melodies echo joy, sorrow, faith, and cultural continuity. Explore Jewish musical influence in American culture as well as how music helped shape the land of Israel. Diverse topics include the Jewish Choral Movement which began with the Yiddish Philharmonic Chorus in 1922 to the Transcontinental Music Publishers, the largest publishers of Jewish music in the world, which created a culture of synagogue music for America since 1976.

Sephardic Jews in the Golden Age: Their Lasting Legacy

Instructor: Shai Cohen

The Golden Age, from the 8th to the 15th centuries in the Iberian Peninsula laid the foundation for Sephardic identity and diaspora communities across the globe. Explore the cultural, intellectual, and social advancements of Sephardic communities highlighting their contributions to philosophy, science, literature and art within a multicultural society that thrived on trade and dialogue. We will discuss the socio-political context of Sephardic Jews within Muslim and Christian rule and the impact of the Inquisition and subsequent expulsion from Spain.

Beginning Hebrew: Speak Like a Native

Instructor: Drora Davis

In this interactive class for beginners, students will learn essential vocabulary, phrases and continue to increase their Hebrew reading skills. Students will learn to recognize words and navigate everyday conversation and practical situations.

Continuing Conversational Hebrew: Expanding Your Skills

Take your Hebrew to the next level. This course is designed for students who have a foundational understanding of Hebrew and are ready to enhance their abilities building on existing vocabulary and grammatical knowledge. Practice speaking through role-play, dialogues, and discussions.

BONUS Class:

Rabbi Fred Klein will lead students on a journey through the Haggadah in two sessions to prepare for Pesach. This class will meet via zoom on Thursday, April 3rd and 10th at 1:00 pm. It is open to all Tbam University students. Zoom link will be sent to all registrants.