Torah for Novices
A Series of Discussions
Sponsored by Temple Sinai of Newington CT—Open to All
Join us on a journey of discovery as we explore Torah and Torah commentary from a layman's point of view. Expand your knowledge and understanding of Jewish traditions and teachings.
The intent of sessions is to help you move beyond the Bible stories that people of the Abrahamic faiths grew up with: Adam and Eve, Noah and the flood, and so forth. We'll discuss English translations of the Torah text in digestible pieces. We'll supplement our own thoughts with those who came before us and those who are our contemporaries.
Sessions are usually held on the first and third Shabbat of each secular calendar month. We meet using Zoom. Temple Sinai members can join us in person.
I hope you'll join us.
Jerry Schwartz
Torah and Rabbinic Judaism
Torah study has been called the world's longest running book club. Jews have been discussing it, interpreting it, reinterpreting, and arguing about it for at least 2,500 years. Not only do they work on understanding the Torah, but they chew over the opinions of those who chewed on it before. That is rabbinic Judaism.
The Talmud, the foundational text of rabbinic Judaism, was compiled over the course of centuries (roughly 3rd Century CE until perhaps the 7th century CE). It is not a quick read. It's commonly printed as 2,711 double-sided pages. There are actually two separate versions, one from Babylonia and one from Jerusalem.
But rabbinic Judaism began way before that. The term Talmud is often used to include other, earlier work. In fact, the development of rabbinic Judaism continues to this day and will likely continue till the end of time. I compare rabbinic Judaism to a coral reef: it grows by accretion, each addition building on what came before.
As they appeared, Samaritan, Christian, and Muslim scholars added their voices. Anthropologists, linguists, archaeologists, and philosophers of all stripes have also chimed in.generations
Our Highlights
Discover engaging Torah commentary and enrich your understanding of Jewish traditions.
In-Depth Torah Analysis
Delve into the details of Torah passages, uncovering hidden meanings and insights, but staying at a level that doesn't require extensive knowledge of the sources.
Interactive Study Sessions
Engage in lively discussions and debates on key Jewish topics, fostering a deeper connection to our heritage.
Community Involvement
Join a vibrant community of learners and enthusiasts dedicated to exploring Torah with a fresh approach.