With Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum, Debbie Meyer, Rabbi Alex Israel
Go back to the beginning and discover Genesis as you’ve never read it before. Should the Torah’s account of humanity’s origins be read as historical fact, philosophical symbolism or grand poetry? Why did Noah’s behaviour deteriorate after the flood? What can we learn from the complex relationships of our Patriarchs and Matriarchs and how did they form the DNA that led to the formation of the Jewish people? Learn with three world-class Tanach teachers, explore the text in depth and gain fresh perspectives on Judaism’s most foundational book.
Free Taster Session: Monday 5 October, with Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum
Behold! An introduction to reading Genesis
The Torah has its own unique literary style which, once understood, opens up new worlds of interpretation and meaning. Long appreciated by the rabbinic Sages and rediscovered by modern biblical scholars, these hidden structures reveal the artistry of the text. In this session, explore the surprising significance of the seemingly simple word 'hinei' (“behold”) and transform your understanding of Genesis.
This is a free standalone lecture, which also serves as a taster for the Genesis Course.
Part A: Gardening & Building (6 sessions)
Rabbi Dr Zarum will take you from Creation to the degeneration of humanity leading up to the Flood, and Debbie Meyer will teach three classes on Noah, his post-flood decline and the Tower of Babel.
Part B: Born for Greatness (6 sessions)
In the Spring term, we will explore the founders of our nation, with Rabbi Dr Zarum teaching three classes on the Abraham and Sarah narratives, and Rabbi Alex Israel teaching three classes on the Isaac and Rebecca saga.
Part C: Covenant in Exile (6 sessions)
In the Summer term, Debbie Meyer will explore the family story at the heart of Genesis: Jacob, his wives, his children, and above all the dramatic life of Joseph. You’ll discover fresh insights and deeper meaning within one of the Torah's most compelling narratives.
To view the course calendar, including all dates and teachers for the Genesis course, click here.
Sign up for the whole course at a discounted rate of £240, or each module individually for £90.
Note: Most sessions will be hybrid, where you can attend in-person at LSJS or on Zoom. Occasional sessions will be held online only.
Dean and Rabbi Sacks Chair of Modern Jewish Thought
t: raphael.zarum@lsjs.ac.uk
Dean of LSJS and the Rabbi Sacks Chair of Modern Jewish Thought, established by the Zandan family. He is an international lecturer, rabbinic leader, academic and author with a passion for teaching traditional Jewish texts and innovative educational programming. Please click here for Biography, Recordings, Writings, News and Events.
A popular Tanach teacher, she studied law at the Hebrew University and is a qualified solicitor in both Israel and the UK. She is a graduate of the LSJS Susi Bradfield Educational Leadership Programme.
Author, educator and international lecturer. He teaches at Yeshivat Eretz Hatzvi and Midreshet Lindenbaum, and records a daily 929 podcast - The Tanakh Podcast.