BT in the AM

Trimester 1: November 11, 18, 25 and December 2, 9, 16
Class 1: The Life and Legacy of King David
9:30-10:20am, facilitator: Chana Slavaticki 
King David, famously known as a gentle shepherd, fearless warrior, soulful musician, humble leader, and loyal servant of Hashem, lived a life that was captivating and complicated.  In this text-based course, we will explore key episodes in the book of Samuel which focus on King David’s relationships with Goliath, Saul, Jonathan, his wives, and Hashem. We will also look at the Psalms that express his anguish and elation through the ups and downs of his experiences and discover how his life story can uplift and inspire us.

Class 2: Answering Israel’s Toughest Questions
10:30-11:30am, Facilitator: Rabbi Mitchell Wohlberg 
In Pirkei Avot we are taught: “Know what to answer.” Since October 7, we as Jews have been confronted with burning questions many of us have never faced before: Hamas or hostage deal, two states or one, genocide or self-defense, Netanyahu or elections, Haredim or IDF, etc. These questions are immensely complex. Immerse yourself in Israel’s biggest dilemmas as we find connections in the Torah portion of
the week and a range of Jewish texts to help us shed light on their answers.  

Trimester 2: January-March
Class 1: Contemporary Jewish Conversations
9:30-10:20am, facilitators: Phil Jacobs, Rabbi Mordechai Soskil, and Dr. Renee Koplon
Learn with three of Beth Tfiloh high school’s top educators as they discuss current, important and intriguing topics in the Jewish world. Explore Israel’s most outspoken and opinionated newspapers and digital news sites to understand their development and readership. Discuss how we can heal as a Jewish community so deeply divided by the recent elections. Analyze the impact of AI on Jewish education. Discover what Jewish law has to say about voice control technology in a Shabbat environment and learn some Torah with a mathematical twist. This course has something for everyone!

Class 2: Heart and Soul
10:30-11:30am, Facilitator: Dr. Zipora Schorr 
The Jewish people have been praying since the dawn of their existence. When did the Amidah become the centerpiece of the prayer service and what is its significance? How does the weekday Amidah differ from the prayer recited on Shabbat and Holidays? Explore the meaning of each of the 19 blessings, their underlying values and personal resonance. Discover the keys to unlocking a personalized relationship with Hashem and a way to live life with a sense of purpose. 

Trimester 3: March-May
Class 1: Purpose and Passion: Insights from Chasidic Teachings
9:30-10:20am, facilitator: Rabbi Benyamin Moss
Embark on a transformative journey exploring Chasidic wisdom and its timeless teachings. Drawing on insights from Chasidic Masters like the Baal Shem Tov, Rav Tzadok Hakohen and Rav Nachman of Breslov, we will analyze texts from Likutei Moharan, Tzidkat Hatzadik and Me’or Einayim as a springboard for discussion about how to navigate challenges, experience growth from regret, master time, and find self-expression in Judaism. This course will offer practical tools to inspire and empower you with greater spiritual awareness to live a more fulfilling life.

Class 2: A Taste of Talmud
10:30-11:30am, Facilitator: Rabbi Chai Posner
The Talmud is one of the greatest bodies of literature ever assembled and forms the basis for so much of our tradition. You’ve surely heard it quoted numerous times and perhaps even learned some of its pages. Talmudic study can feel intimidating for the uninitiated, but with Rabbi Poser as your guide, newbies and those with experience will appreciate it in a whole new light. In this course you will learn how to decipher and delve into a page of Talmud and appreciate its historical context. The sages will come to life through biographical vignettes, an understanding of what lies at the core of their debate and why it matters. Sharpen your analytical skills as you use your “gemara kup” (Talmudic mind) in this intriguing course.
 
REGISTER FOR BT IN THE AM HERE

For more information, contact Chana Slavaticki: CSlavaticki@btfiloh.org 

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Celebrating the Joy of Judaism. Embracing all Jews.
One of the leading Modern Orthodox synagogues in America, with a diverse membership, and an extensive offering of religious services, classes and year-round Jewish programming for all ages.