Judaism
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| A. |
ZIONISM: ITS COURSE THROUGH HISTORY
This course will examine the foundations of the Jewish people's tie to
Eretz Yisrael and its manifestations throughout history, culminating
in the Zionist movement of the past century and the founding of the State
of Israel. Topics will include: the Bar Kokhba rebellion, Shivat
Tzion (the return from the Babylonian exile), the Haskalah
and Zionism, the Bilu movement, Herzl, the Balfour Declaration,
Jabotinsky and Weizman, the Irgun, Lechi and Haganah, the
roots of the Palestinian problem, Rav Kook and the Neturei Karta, and
more recent developments from the War of Independence through the current
intifada.
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| B. |
CONTEMPORARY JEWISH MEDICAL ETHICS
An exploration of halakhic perspectives on modern medical dilemmas
such as genetic screening, surrogate motherhood, abortion, cloning, organ
transplants, euthanasia and assisted suicide, determination of death and
autopsies. The specific topics to be studied will be selected according
to the interests of the students enrolled.
|
| C. |
MISHNEH TORAH
The course will offer an introduction to the most classical book on Jewish
law ever written. We will understand the great originality and care that
made this work of the Rambam so unique. We will explore how the Rambam
used his work to grapple with some of the most fundamental questions that
exist for a traditional Jew-the clash between faith and reason, the ability
to stay traditional as history evolves and the relationship of broad spiritual
pursuits to careful observance of the mitzvot. |
| D. |
RESPONSA
The course provides an analysis of critical questions in halakhah
and the dialectic process by which the Rabbanim determine the appropriate
law. Actual she'elot and teshuvot are studied; sources are
pursued. Four papers will be required throughout the year which encourage
students to trace an issue in contemporary halakhah.
|
| E. |
SURVIVAL JUDAISM: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO MAKE
IT ON THE COLLEGE CAMPUS
This course will address a variety of issues both practical and philosophical,
that students regularly confront in college. Topcis include: Shabbat
and kashrut in dorms, dealing with non-Jewish or non-observant
roomates, an introduction to the various denominations of Judaism, dating
and sexual issues, substance abuse, and responding to such issues as Bible
criticism, anti-Israel messages, and Jews for Jesus. |
