Introduction to Jewish Culture

Year 2 of Kol Hadash's three-year adult education cycle. Rabbi Chalom explores Jewish culture the way humanists actually experience it: holidays as human stories, life-cycle moments as chosen rituals, Hebrew and Yiddish as living languages, and food and music as portable heritage.

Watch a free sample lesson

From Kol Hadash's recorded three-year adult education cycle, taught by Rabbi Adam Chalom, PhD.

What you'll learn

The story and modern meaning of every major holiday
Life-cycle rituals as human traditions we can shape
Hebrew, Yiddish, and the languages Jews carry with them
How to build a Jewish home without prayer or belief

Syllabus

The Jewish Year

· High Holidays
· Sukkot to Hanukkah
· Purim to Passover
· Shavuot to Tisha B'Av

Life Cycle

· Birth and naming
· B Mitzvah, humanistically
· Weddings
· Death and mourning

Languages & Arts

· Hebrew as a living language
· Yiddish and the Ashkenazi world
· Jewish music, film, and literature

Everyday Culture

· Food and the Jewish table
· Humor and identity

Your instructor

Rabbi Adam Chalom, PhD

Rabbi, Kol Hadash · Dean for North America, IISHJ

Rabbi Adam Chalom is a dynamic and illuminating speaker, a clear and inspiring teacher, and a warm and welcoming presence at Kol Hadash — a leading voice in the movement of Humanistic Judaism. He has served as the rabbi of Kol Hadash…

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