Compose a ‘discussion’ in short essay form on insights garnered through a Jewish midrashic interpretation of the book of Numbers. (1 to 1.5 pages) How is

Compose a ‘discussion’ in short essay form on insights garnered through a Jewish midrashic interpretation of the book of Numbers. (1 to 1.5 pages) How is the book of Numbers a story about the themes of journey, freedom, responsibility, and the ‘in-betweens’ of life?   Offer your impressions on such an interpretative approach and how […]

This week we are exploring the origins/emergence of Israel as a distinct ethnic group/people throughout a period of about two hundred years in the

This week we are exploring the origins/emergence of Israel as a distinct ethnic group/people throughout a period of about two hundred years in the highlands of central Canaan, and the Israelite (and Judahite) stories of origins/emergence that later would become among the first layers of biblical literature.  This includes ancestral stories that, as eponyms, helped […]

Consider the meaning of exodus and liberation for the Israelites and for people today.  What are the forms of injustice and oppression that predominate to

Consider the meaning of exodus and liberation for the Israelites and for people today.  What are the forms of injustice and oppression that predominate today?  How has the exodus account inspired people on the margins of society, living as slaves, or facing political oppression?  How does/can the story of the biblical exodus speak today to […]