Zion in the Diaspora: How Jews Imagined They Lived in Zion Wherever They Actually Lived

Date: Jan 22, 2024

Time: 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Sponsor: Public Lectures and Events

Location: Online

Category: Timely Insights, Timeless Wisdom

Zion in the Diaspora: How Jews Imagined They Lived in Zion Wherever They Actually Lived 

Part of our spring learning series Timely Insights, Timeless Wisdom 

Monday, January 22, 1:00–2:30 p.m. ET 
Online

With Dr. David Kraemer, Joseph J. and Dora Abbell Librarian and Professor of Talmud and Rabbinics, JTS 

Jews through the ages have hoped that one day the Messiah would come, leading them back to Zion. But in the meantime, they lived all over the world, making homes in one diaspora or another. And remarkably, they often spoke of their diaspora homes as “Zion,” a place of redemption long before actual redemption. In this session, we will examine multiple such teachings and traditions including teachings of the great Maharal of Prague (16th century), early Hasidic masters (18th century), and others. We will consider what it means for Jews to imagine themselves in their eternal homes while living abroad. 

If you have previously registered for another session in this series, your registration admits you to all sessions in the series, and you may attend as many as you’d like. 

The Zoom link for all sessions in the Timely Insights, Timeless Wisdom series will be in the confirmation email that you receive after you register. 

ABOUT THE SERIES 

 Join JTS’s renowned faculty to learn about their current scholarly work and greatest passions. Drawing on their expertise, scholars will offer inspiring learning and expose us to new ideas and insights that help us connect the Jewish past with the Jewish future.