Toward a Heavenly World: Yizkor Through a Biblical Lens
Date: Feb 12, 2020 - Feb 26, 2020
Time: Noon - 1:00 p.m.
Sponsor: Online Learning
Location: Online
Category: Online Learning
AN ONLINE MINI-COURSE WITH JTS
Three Wednesdays
February 12, 19, 26, 2020
12:00-1:00 p.m. ET
With Dr. Benjamin Sommer, Professor of Bible and Ancient Semitic Languages, JTS
It is often revealing to look at a prayer not merely as a text but as a ritual, an activity that is supposed to accomplish something. We will apply this perspective to the Yizkor prayers, asking what it is we are doing when we say Yizkor. To better answer this question, we will compare the wording of Yizkor to biblical texts as well as sources from ancient Phoenicia, Syria, and Babylonia. This discussion will lead us to re-evaluate some common beliefs about the afterlife in Judaism.
Familiarity with Biblical Hebrew and Jewish practice are recommended, but not required for this class.
Cost: $60
Recordings will be available for those unable to attend live.
Registration required.
