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IJKL Adult Ed Spring 2025

Register easily for any class that interests you! Upon signing up, you’ll receive Zoom access details, a reminder before each session, and a recording afterward to revisit the class anytime.

Spring semester classes begin the week of January 6.

Please indicate the classes you are interested in attending by checking the appropriate boxes below.
Classes through May 2025

When: Mondays: 10:00am-11:00am (January 20, 27, February 3 and 10)
Description: Discover the mystical teachings of Judaism in this four-part series. Kabbalah, the spiritual heart of Jewish thought, explores the nature of God, the universe, and our inner world. Together, we’ll uncover the historical origins of Kabbalah, explore the sefirot (divine attributes), study foundational Kabbalistic texts, and learn how to apply these ancient teachings to modern life. Through this journey, you’ll gain insight into yourself, the natural world, and the divine.
Instructor: Rabbi Amy Grossblatt Pessah (VIRTUAL)
When: Mondays: 10:00am–11:00am (March 10, 16, 24, 31)
Description: What is Karaite Judaism, and how does it differ from Rabbinic Judaism? Why is it so rarely discussed?
In this engaging presentation, we’ll explore these questions and more, diving into the origins and practices of Karaite Judaism. Through a clear and accessible introduction, we’ll uncover the creative and thought-provoking interpretations of the Torah that distinguish Karaite Judaism from the traditions we are more familiar with. No prior knowledge is needed—this session is open to everyone! Join us for a fascinating journey into an often-overlooked branch of Judaism and discover unique, meaningful perspectives on Jewish life and identity.
Instructor: Henry Jacobson (VIRTUAL)
When: Tuesdays: 12:30pm–1:30pm (starting January 14)
Description: We often hear news from Israel, but rarely do we hear the deeply personal voices of the Israeli heart. In this course, we will explore Israeli poetry and music created in the wake of October 7th, delving into the profound emotions of both heartbreak and resilience that have shaped the Israeli experience over the past year. No Hebrew knowledge is required—just an open heart and a willingness to listen to these powerful expressions of the human spirit.
Instructor: Dr. Sandra Lilienthal (VIRTUAL)
When: Every Tuesday: 8:00pm-9:00pm
Description: Join us for an engaging and interactive beginners class in Hebrew! This course is designed for those with little to no prior knowledge of the Hebrew language. You'll learn the basics of reading, writing, and speaking Hebrew, including the alphabet, essential vocabulary, and simple grammar. Whether you're interested in enhancing your cultural understanding or preparing for travel, this class will provide a solid foundation in Hebrew. Come ready to learn and have fun!
Instructor: Jessica Kaplan (VIRTUAL)
When: Every Wednesday 10:30am-11.30am
Description: Our lives are a lot like the wanderings of the Israelites in the wilderness, as told in the book of Bamidbar. Some people spend their time trying to get from point A to point B – focusing on the physical journey.  Others recognize that our journey can be more of a pilgrimage – a spiritual pilgrimage – if we allow ourselves to experience it in that way.  In this course, we will explore how our own lives mirror the 40 years in the wilderness and how we can move forward physically as well as spiritually throughout our lives.
Instructor: Rabbi David Paskin (VIRTUAL)
When: Every Thursday, 9:15am-10:00am
Description: Discover the most fascinating stories and teachings of the rabbis from the Talmud. Learn moral lessons that are still relevant today.
Instructor: Rabbi Uri (VIRTUAL)
When: Every Thursday, 10:30am-11:30am
Description:This engaging class explores today’s most pressing challenges through the lens of Jewish tradition and values. Using both traditional and modern texts, we’ll tackle complex and timely questions such as:
  •  Jewish Ethics and AI—Are robots kosher?
  •  Interfaith Marriage—A test of tradition or a new Jewish reality?
  •  Israel and Diaspora Jews—A love story or a complicated relationship?
  •  End-of-Life Choices—How do Jewish values guide us?
Together, we’ll connect ancient wisdom with modern dilemmas, sparking bold, thought-provoking conversations that inspire deeper understanding and reflection.
Instructor: Rabbi Mark Goldman (VIRTUAL and IN PERSON)
When: Every Thursday: 8:00pm-9:00pm
Description: Designed for those with a basic understanding of Hebrew, this course will deepen your knowledge and enhance your proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking. You'll explore more complex grammar and syntax, expand your vocabulary, engage with a variety of texts, and participate in interactive speaking exercises to improve fluency and confidence.
Instructor: Jessica Kaplan (VIRTUAL)
When: Every Friday, 10:30am-11:45am (starting January 17)
Description: In this class, we will review the content of each Torah portion and then delve between the lines to find deeper and contemporary insights and meaning. While we will touch on some traditional commentaries, our main focus will be on the wonderful ideas of the late Rabbi Dr. Jonathan Sacks z"l. 
Instructor: Rabbi Jeff Segelman (VIRTUAL)
Mon, December 23 2024 22 Kislev 5785