Course Syllabus

Discovering Judaism: A Comprehensive Online Introduction

Embark on a transformative journey through the rich tapestry of Judaism, one of the world's most ancient and profound religious traditions. In "Judaism 101," we endeavor to unveil the depth and breadth of Jewish heritage, beliefs, and practices that have shaped the course of history and influenced countless lives over millennia.

Judaism isn't just a religion; it's a confluence of history, culture, tradition, and spirituality. In this course, students will traverse the dawn of Judaism, acquainting themselves with foundational beliefs and tenets that have sustained this faith for over 3,000 years. You will be ushered into the heart of Jewish communal life—the Synagogue—and uncover the significance of life-altering rituals such as the bris (covenant of circumcision) and the bar and bat mitzvah (rites of passage).

Jewish festivals and Holy Days, replete with symbolism and ancient wisdom, will be illuminated, offering insights into the profound importance of each celebration in the Jewish calendar.

Your journey won't be confined to places of worship or major events. You'll be welcomed into the sanctity of a Jewish home. From understanding the nuances of kosher dietary laws to the warmth of the Shabbat dinner table, you'll witness firsthand how faith seamlessly intertwines with daily life. Delve into the written and oral laws—integral pillars of Judaism—and discern their pivotal role in guiding aspects of life, from matrimony to mourning.

Beyond the tangible, we venture into the spiritual realm, exploring Jewish perspectives on prayer, mysticism, and age-old beliefs about the celestial and the ethereal—including angels, demons, and conceptions of the afterlife.

History is a testament to a people's resilience and faith. From the epoch of the patriarch Abraham, through the eras of prophets and kings, you'll traverse time, culminating in the solemn reflection of the Holocaust—one of the darkest chapters of human history. Yet, from the ashes of the past emerged the resolute spirit of the Jewish people, leading to the rebirth of a nation in the form of the modern State of Israel.

Our aspiration is that "Judaism 101" becomes more than a course—it becomes a beacon. A beacon that not only enlightens but also inspires deeper exploration and understanding of Judaism and, by extension, fosters a world enriched by tolerance, knowledge, and mutual respect for all faiths.

Embark on this enlightening journey with us, and let the timeless wisdom of Judaism illuminate your path.