Return and Renewal: Torah Study

Shabbat morning Torah study this year will focus on the Biblical books of Ezra and Nehemiah. Among the last books in the Bible, they tell us about life in Judea as the exiles return from Babylonian Exile. Rebuilding Jerusalem and the Temple is not as easy as expected and the community faces many challenges. To begin with, Judean society must adapt to being part of the much larger Persian Empire. In some ways, Ezra and Nehemiah are closest to the books of Esther and Daniel, which also reflect this later time period.

One of the issues that faces the Jewish community at this time, is one that is familiar to us in our own time period, the question of "Who is a Jew?" This is also the time in Jewish history when the teachings of the Torah truly become the laws of Jewish society.

The books of Ezra and Nehemiah have been described by some scholars as the best resources for overcoming fear and discouragement.

Torah study is held on Saturday mornings from 9:30-10:20 am beginning on October 17, 2009, and continuing weekly except for holiday weekends through Shavuot on May 18, 2010. This study group experience is open to everyone--you need not be an expert in Bible. We will read in English, occasionally referring to the Hebrew as it helps us understand the commentaries. Drop-ins are welcome. You may bring your own Bible or share the books that we will have available.