Lunch & Learn: On Chaos and Revelation: The Foundations of Jewish Community

PLEASE NOTE: Lunch & Learn is going virtual! Please register for Zoom link AND password.

Lunch & Learn is a weekly program, every Thursday from 12:30 – 1:30 pm. The Lunch & Learn program is generously sponsored by Rita Edelston.  

January 7

On Chaos and Revelation: The Foundations of Jewish Community

Dr. Elana Stein Hain 

The chaos of the pandemic and of this American moment has revealed much about who we are and who we want to be. We’ll study a Talmudic text that probes the relationship between destruction and creativity, confusion and understanding.

January 14

Unanswered Prayers: Lessons from the Talmud

Rabbanit Sally Mayer 

When a drought devastates or a plague strikes, sometimes the great Rabbis are unable to succeed in their prayers, whereas the common person’s plea brings salvation. We’ll study Talmudic stories that offer guidance on prayer in times of trouble.

January 21: 12:45 - 1:45 pm

The "Good Samaritan" in American and Jewish Legal Traditions: 

A Study in Contrasts

Rabbi Nathaniel Helfgot 

What is the legal obligation, if any, of a citizen to step in and aid someone in trouble? How far does it go and what does it reflect about core principles of a society?

January 28

Admah, Adam, Dust and Jewish Ecological Wisdom

Shamu Fenyvesi Sadeh

This Tu B’Shvat, explore Genesis Chapter 2 and what it means for who we are and what we need to do. What does our creation story tell us about our relationships and purpose in the world?

February 4

The Quest for the Historical King David 

Prof. Yosef Garfinkle

Dig into the archaeological evidence surrounding Israelite ruler King David, with the Chair of the Institute of Archaeology at the Hebrew University.

February 11

Why Jews Do That: Or 30 Questions Your Rabbi Never Answered

Rabbi Avram Mlotek  CO SPONSORED WITH JEWISH BOOK COUNCIL

What's with Jews and candles? Why are Jews obsessed with food? Is sex kosher?

Insert tongue firmly in cheek and enjoy the lighter side of Judaism.

Co-sponsor: Jewish Book Council

February 18

The Meaning of Tests in Our Lives

Rabbi David Ehrenkranz 

Why does God feel the need to test us?