Description
In 1948, the State of Israel was established marking the first time in almost 2000 years that the Jewish People had sovereignty over their homeland. This historic event--the creation of Medinat Yisrael, the State of Israel--provides an important new context for our study of Tanakh. It allows us to learn Tanakh in ways we had never experienced previously. We have a better understanding of the places and lives biblical figures inhabited. Along with the joy of having a Jewish homeland, having a country of our own also means we have to deal with all the problems inherent in governance. From corruption to taxation to the most basic issues such as ensuring everyone has enough to eat. In this course, we will focus on applying the lessons gathered from the Biblical narrative to the modern State of Israel, while also discussing how recent events and discoveries inform our learning of Tanakh.. Along the way, we will learn about our relationship with the Land of Israel both as individuals and as a nation. This course was developed by Rabbi Jeffrey Schrager. Rabbi Schrager was raised in Rochester, NY, and went on learn in Yeshivat Hamivtar and Yeshiva University where he studied English Literature. He has been a classroom teacher for more than a decade, first in Rochester and subsequently at the Akiba Academy of Dallas, TX, where he served as the Middle School Judaic Studies Coordinator. In 2015, he and his family fulfilled their dream of moving to Israel, where they currently reside in Ramat Beit Shemesh.
Prerequisites
None
Course Objectives
Understand the geography of Israel and how it impacts events in the area. Learn how to use narratives in Tanakh to inform our actions as individuals and as a Jewish people. Understand the relationship between ancient Israel and the modern state.
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Details
Discipline:
Judaic Studies
Level:
High School Standard
Program:
OJSC
Grade:
8, 9, 10, 11, 12
When Offered:
Duration:
weeks
Lab Kit Purchase Required:
No
Accredited:
Middle States Commission on Secondary Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges
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