Information

Start Date: 05 October 2026
Day: Monday
20:00-21:30 UK time
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.

Book

Number of Attendees
Full course
Week 1: Monday 5th October, 20:00
Genesis Course - Taster Session
Week 2: Monday 19th October, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session A1
Week 3: Monday 2nd November, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session A2
Week 4: Monday 16th November, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session A3
Week 5: Monday 30th November, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session A4
Week 6: Monday 14th December, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session A5
Week 7: Monday 21st December, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session A6
Week 8: Monday 11th January, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session B1
Week 9: Monday 25th January, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session B2
Week 10: Monday 8th February, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session B3
Week 11: Monday 22nd February, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session B4
Week 12: Monday 8th March, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session B5
Week 13: Monday 15th March, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session B6
Week 14: Monday 17th May, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session C1
Week 15: Monday 24th May, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session C2
Week 16: Monday 7th June, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session C3
Week 17: Monday 14th June, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session C4
Week 18: Monday 21st June, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session C5
Week 19: Monday 28th June, 20:00
Genesis Course - Session C6
Module A
Module B
Module C
Are you sure? Paying for the full course includes all parts!
Terms and Conditions
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Terms and Conditions

  • Students should arrive in good time for each class to avoid disrupting the teacher and other students. Classes will not be delayed for late arrivals.
  • LSJS does not accept liability for loss, theft, or damage to student possessions on the LSJS Campus.
  • Students must behave respectfully towards staff and other students. Abusive, aggressive, or inappropriate behaviour may result in removal from the class or course and refusal of future LSJS programmes.
  • LSJS reserves the right to refuse admission where there is a threat of disruption or risk to the safety of staff or students.
  • Student data collected during booking will be used for class/course logistics and to keep participants informed about upcoming LSJS events and information.
  • Photos may be taken during classes and courses for use in LSJS promotional materials (website, social media, press, and print). By booking, students consent to LSJS using any images of themselves or those booked on their behalf, and acknowledge that LSJS holds all associated rights over this material.
  • For Lifelong Learning classes, learning resources will be sent to students in advance where applicable. Late sign-ups should contact the LSJS office to request materials.
  • Lifelong Learning classes (online and hybrid) will be recorded and uploaded to registered students' LSJS accounts, unless otherwise stated.
  • Online Ulpan classes are recorded and will only be shared with registered students upon request.
  • LSJS aims to make its classes and courses as accessible as possible. For accessibility queries, contact the LSJS office on 020 8203 6427 or lsjsadmin@lsjs.ac.uk.
  • Children under 18 (excluding GCSE Ivrit and Bet Limmud participants) must always be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian, whether in person or online. The LSJS Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy applies.

Cancellation & Refunds

  • LSJS reserves the right to cancel classes and courses at any time before the start date without notice. In the event of cancellation, students will be offered an alternative class/course of equal value or a full refund. LSJS will not be liable for any other losses arising from the cancellation.
  • Students wishing to cancel must notify LSJS in writing by emailing lsjsadmin@lsjs.ac.uk. Cancellations made more than 7 days before the start date will receive a full refund. Cancellations made 7 days or fewer before the start date will not be refunded.
  • In exceptional circumstances (e.g. serious medical issue or bereavement), students unable to complete a course may be offered pro-rated credit at LSJS's discretion, for use towards another LSJS class, course, or tour.
Optional donation
Booking fees only cover a small percentage of programme running costs. Please help LSJS to continue to provide first-rate adult education, degree and teacher training programmes by making a donation. Thank you very much!
Please tick this box if you are a UK tax payer and wish us to claim Gift Aid on this and future donations. Gift Aid
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You can register a maximum of 10 attendees for each event.
Rabbi Dr Raphael Zarum
Dean and Rabbi Sacks Chair of Modern Jewish Thought
Debbie Meyer
Rabbi Alex Israel

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