Judaism Decoded

A new course from the jewish learning institute

The origins and evolution of Jewish tradition

IN PERSON & VIA ZOOM

Just as science follows the scientific method, Jewish tradition has its own system to ensure its authenticity remains intact.

Judaism Decoded sheds light on the mysteries surrounding biblical interpretation. How do we know our interpretation is true? If it is true, why is it subject to differences of opinion? And with so many interpretations to choose from, how do we know which one reflects its original intent?

Discover the sheer elegance of the “source code” on which Torah law is built; enjoy the razor-sharp reasoning, intelligent debate, and compelling arguments of the Talmudic dialectic; and get a fascinating, behind-the-scenes glimpse of the most intellectually sophisticated religion in existence.

How: In person recommended (Zoom option also available)

When: 6 Mondays, November 18 - December (16) 23 2024
8-9:25pm
Refreshments will be served.

Where: Address in W2 provided upon registration.

Cost: £65 (Includes course book)
Couples & Bring a friend: £50 per person (Includes course book).

Not sure it’s for you? Try the first lesson for free!

Full & part scholarships available. Please see registration page or be in touch for more info.

Course author: This course is developed by JLI, the world’s preeminent provider of Jewish learning.
Each lesson is well researched, highly engaging, interactive and includes cutting edge media.

Course Instructor: Rabbi Shneur Wineberg, Director, Chabad of Notting Hill

See below for the full course outline

Lesson 1
The Dynamic Duo

If we have a written law, why do we need tradition? And if we have a tradition, what’s the point of a written law? Discover the brilliance of this binary system, and how it has kept Jewish tradition intact for millennia.

Lesson 2
A Formula for Eternity

Circumstances change, and, in most cases, so do the rules—unless, that is, the rules were created as principles with a unique formula to make them apply to any situation that may arise. Explore the systematic formula through which Jewish law is applied to solve new, modern-day dilemmas.

Lesson 3
Rabbis Making Rules

Is my rabbi allowed to change the law when he deems it necessary? When do rabbis have the power to legislate new laws? And what prevents a rabbi from unilaterally changing the face of Judaism?

Lesson 4
Debating the Divine

The Talmud is filled with all kinds of debates. If the law is Divine, should there be any room for discussion? When there are differences of opinion, how do we determine the law? And why does the Talmud record opinions that were ultimately overruled?

Lesson 5
Laws That Expire

While most Jewish practices are as relevant today as ever, some laws have reasons that no longer apply.
When does a law expire? How is it revoked? And why might we choose to continue a practice even once its rationale is no longer relevant?

Lesson 6
Evidence for Sinai

Judaism encourages us to question. How do we know the Torah is true? Why was Maimonides so convinced about the historic truth of the revelation at Sinai? Is there any empirical evidence to support his claim?