CNU Lifelong Learning Program Presents:
An Introduction to Judaism

with instructor Dr. Vered Sakal
Bertram and Gladys Aaron Professor of Jewish Studies, Christopher Newport Univ.

This 5-week course will provide a general introduction to Judaism in its many ancient and modern expressions. Aiming to address the questions of "what do Jews believe?" and "what do Jews do?" through close analysis of different forms of Judaism, students will come out of this class with a better understanding of Jewish values and core beliefs.

We will begin our exploration by examining the emergence of Judaism from the world of the Hebrew Bible. 

Moving on to rabbinical literature, we will get acquainted with the Mishna and the Talmud, and learn how the destruction of the second temple generated new forms of Jewish beliefs and practices.

Jumping in time and space, we will visit medieval Andalusia and discuss the tight connection between Jews and Muslims in Spain.

The last two classes will review Jewish mysticism (kabbalah) and Jewish responses to modernity. 

For more information or to sign up, please visit the CNU Lifelong Learning website.