While synagogues and sacred books were rarely illustrated, Medieval Jews commissioned and created marvelously illustrated Haggadot (Haggadahs). The pictures in these 14th - 16th century books can tell us a lot about both how their illustrators and viewers imagined the Biblical story and the clothing, buildings, food, celebrations and humor of their own day. We will examine several of the most beautiful and interesting examples of the illustrated medieval Haggadah, comparing the variety of styles, images and artistry among them.

Abimelech in the Book of Judges is a true (if illegitimate) son of the legendary Gideon: clever, murderous, and vengeful. Although he ultimately lacks his father’s good luck, he packs more back-stabbing punch in his brief career than most any other Biblical character. The story of Abimelech is also spiced with poetic propaganda, an array of dubious friends and enemies, and a comical (as well as didactic) ending that really underlines the disastrous (and entertaining) chaos of the age of Judges 3000 years ago. Students will receive a rich visual introduction to the era of Judges as well as extensive notes to assist in translation.

We will complete our overview of the Hebrew verb system, and continue to build Biblical text translation and analysis skills, using Bibleworks software in class. We will also translate sample texts from the Hebrew Bible. Students who complete this course will qualify for entry into our Advanced Biblical Hebrew translation and analysis course, which covers a new topic and texts every semester. Materials provided by the instructor.

This course covers additional features of Hebrew commonly found in Biblical and Siddur (prayerbook) texts, using the text Prayerbook Hebrew the Easy Way. We will introduce more of the verbal system and new grammatical components, including the present and past tenses. Students will read lengthier Prayerbook passages to develop reading and comprehension skills.

In partnership with Cong. Beth Israel

Every child needs to understand where they come from. If you are raising your child as a Jew but one parent is not Jewish it is essential that you teach your child about that side of their family. This workshop will discuss how to teach your child about BOTH sides of the family and how to integrate both parents into your child’s identity.

In partnership with Urban Adamah

Hebrew Writers: Film Biographies and Text Reading (Virtual on Zoom)

Learn modern conversational Hebrew in a fun, inspiring, and unique online program. Practice speaking Hebrew in a warm and supportive environment with the opportunity to further reinforce weekly lesson material outside of class. Online group classes are offered for beginner through advanced-intermediate students. Register for the upcoming spring classes at https://www.hebrewwithtikva.com. Contact Tikva for help determining your level. 

East Bay Jewish Film Festival presents (in partnership with New Lehrhaus) presents:

David Grossman: Documentary Film and Discussion

In partnership with Urban Adamah

It is not unusual for a Jew of color to be asked, “How did you get to be Jewish?” Quite simply the question stems from their appearance - “You don’t look Jewish.”