These text studies provide an opportunity for deeper learning, using pre-prepared text study sheets (see below) and videos.
Aseret Yamei Teshuvah – 10 Days of Repentance
Rosh ha-Shanah Day 1 Beit Midrash Text Study
The ten days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are known as Aseret Yamei Teshuvah, the Ten Days of Repentance. In this text study, Rabbi Richman will lead us through an exploration of the laws, customs, and ritual opportunities for us to engage in during these days. We will consider how the name of this set of days and how this unit of time creates a spiritual and relational opening for us to do some of the hard, holy work of the season.
Water is Life: From Tears and Tashlich to Protective Action
Rosh ha-Shanah Day 2 Beit Midrash Text Study
In this text study, we will use the ritual of tashlich (ceremonially casting our “sins” into the water) on Rosh Hashanah as a starting place for considering the transformative, cleansing, and sustaining power of water in Jewish tradition. We will study traditional Jewish texts and contemporary calls for water protection by activists in our own city and country. Our learning will inspire reflection in preparation for tashlich and, hopefully, greater concern for environmental protection.
Ne’ilah: Closing of the Gates
Yom Kippur Beit Midrash Text Study
In this Yom Kippur text study, we will learn about Ne’ilah, the concluding service of Yom Kippur. What does it mean that the “gates” are closing at the end of this day? What are we meant to do in these final moments? How might we feel when the service comes to a close? We’ll take a look at some of the prayers and meditations in the service, and do some reflecting in anticipation of the closing moments of Yom Kippur.