Jewish ideas matter. They make us smarter. They compel us to action. They make the world a better place. Hartman scholars address the most urgent, important issues of our day through Jewish texts, history, and tradition. You’ll be inspired by our unique approach to learning and the outstanding community of passionate learners who will join you on this journey of discovery. Register now for our public lectures, exclusive multi-session seminars, and special programs that harness Jewish wisdom for a better future.

Course Offerings

LIVING WITH UNCERTAINTY: RISKS & REWARDS

ELANA STEIN HAIN

In today’s world, people are certain about so many things. Impressions are formed, and often affirmed, in an instant. What can we learn from the rabbis about the value of uncertainty, and how to negotiate uncertainty thoughtfully? Four sessions.

PLURALISM, EXCLUSIVISM, AND THE BOUNDARIES OF BIBLICAL THEOLOGY
BEN SOMMER

What are the boundaries, limits and opportunities of pluralism? With its vigorous debates about core theological, social, and legal issues, the Bible offers a rich platform for exploring the tensions and questions around pluralism. Four sessions.

RELIGION OR NATION? MODERN DEBATES ABOUT JEWISH IDENTITY
LEORA BATNITZKY
Why has modernity forced Jews to define themselves either as a religion or a nation? Study debates around emancipation in Europe and the rise of modern antisemitism, Jewish conversion, religious freedom, and discrimination. Three sessions.

OLD JEW, NEW JEW, ISRAELI JEW: A FRESH LOOK AT ISRAELI-JEWISH CULTURE
MISHAEL ZION
What is Israeli Jewish identity today? Explore Israeli Jewish identity through text, music, food, and fashion. Examine the roots, unpack the ideas, and explore how they open up new possible bridges between Israeli and North American Jewish life. Three sessions.

AN EXCEPTIONAL HATRED? UNDERSTANDING AMERICAN ANTISEMITISM
JAMES LOEFFLER
Antisemitism has become a partisan issue in American life. Everyone wants to stop it, yet no one can agree on a definition or remedy. Explore legal, conceptual, and historical frameworks for the major questions surrounding antisemitism. Three sessions.

BEGINNINGS AND ORDER: ENCOUNTERS WITH JEWISH CREATION MYTHS
MELILA HELLNER-ESHED
While the Genesis creation story is familiar, later commentaries reveal cracks in the narrative. Explore various interpretations of this iconic part of the Bible and what it conveys about the deepest questions confronting humanity. Three sessions.

SALON@475 BOOK TALK : SANCTIFIED SEX

What can Judaism contribute to nurturing loving relationships? Elana Stein Hain and Noam Zion discuss his new book, Sanctified Sex: The Two-Thousand-Year Jewish Debate on Marital Intimacy.

YOM HASHOAH HITKANSUT MEMORY CIRCLE

A global commemoration of Yom HaShoah. Through a powerful new ritual created to honor those who perished, we transform memory into a personal commitment to eliminate dehumanization.

YOM HASHOAH DAY OF LEARNING

Learn, reflect, and commemorate Yom HaShoah with opportunities for text study, discussion, and new rituals dedicated to the memory of the Shoah.

YOM HA’ATZMAUT DAY OF LEARNING

Celebrate Israel’s 74th birthday! Explore the evolution of the State of Israel with Hartman scholars through a diverse lens of academic thought and personal stories.