Diaspora in Jewish Thought
Date: Oct 25, 2023
Time: 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Sponsor: Online Learning
Location: Online
Category: Online Learning
An Online Course with Dr. David Kraemer
Six Wednesdays: October 25, November 1, 8, 15, 29, December 6, 2023
7:00-8:30 P.M. ET
Online
The majority of Jews have lived outside of the Land of Israel from the time of the Babylonian Exile in the 6th century BCE until recent modernity. Judaism as we know it is, to a significant extent, a product of the unique conditions of Diaspora. Making their lives and homes in communities across the world, Jews have sought a framework to make sense of this experience. The traditional understanding of exile as punishment for sin has served this function to some degree, particularly in times of difficulty. But Diaspora was often benign, even peaceful and productive, and Jews have integrated this lived reality into their worldview too, frequently affirming their Diaspora lives. In this course, we will study some of the most compelling Jewish arguments in favor of Diaspora throughout history, from the Talmud to Hasidic masters, and ask how we, as Diaspora Jews, might relate to them.
Cost
$180 for six sessions.

Dr. David Kraemer is Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian and Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics at JTS.