Leyv Ha-Ir’s Education Committee is pleased to present the first of two Winter 2023 Education Series.  Our first course will be led by educator and poet Ross Weissman. 

Jewish ritual contains many layers of religious, cultural, and personal meaning.  They frame holidays, life events, but also brief, everyday moments, such as tying one’s shoe. 

In this series, we will explore how Jewish rituals can give shape and meaning to the everyday.  Together, we will read and study selections of the siddur, Jewish law, Tanakh, and listen to contemporary Jewish music, to expand our appreciation of, engagement with, and practice of Jewish rituals.  We will pay special attention to parts of the day that feel commonplace, such as, waking up, going for a stroll, and preparing to go to sleep, to unpack Jewish perspectives on the significance of these moments through ritual. 

Participants are welcome to attend as many sessions as desired. Each session is offered as a stand-alone discussion. 

Session 3: Laying Down at Night 

Night can be a scary time, marking the invisible and the unknown.  There are many classical Jewish sources that attempt to navigate the uncertainty of the perceived darkness, and provide comfort, peace and religious assurance before going to sleep.  In our third session, we will read some of the liturgical voices here and explore their relevancy. 

Optional pre-reading is here.

All LHI members will receive the Zoom information for each class.  Guests must register to receive the Zoom information one day before each class.  There is no charge for these classes, although guests are requested to contribute $18, or an amount of your choice, for participation.