Rabbi Louis Finklestein, z’l, said, “When I pray I speak to God. When I study, God speaks to me.”
Our study of Torah, Jewish texts, Jewish traditions and Jewish history allows us to gain insight into truths about life, helps us determine the appropriate and ethical ways for us to act, and gives us appreciation for the Jewish people’s journey. For non-Jews, the study of Judaism and Jewish history builds bridges of understanding, and often provides a greater understanding of their own faith.
I offer a variety of sessions that brings the joy and warmth of Jewish learning to your synagogue, chauvrah, minyon, Jewish group, church or other gathering interested in study. I work with you to customize the sessions to the needs and level of your participants. Whether a Scholar-in-Residence weekend, a multi-session course, or a single lesson, I bring my energy, knowledge and excitement for Judaism to you with interactive, affordable and often multi-media presentations.
Some of my more popular sessions include:
An Israel that Could Have Been – A exploration of Britain’s offer of a Jewish Protectorate in Africa in 1903 – a little known story with tremendous importance to the founding of the State of Israel.
Jewish Ethics through Star Trek – We watch a Star Trek episode together, and then study Jewish ethical texts that relate to the story, and often shows Jewish thought within the TV series.
Talmud for Today – Study of pieces of Talmud, the great exposition of Jewish law and thought, in a manner that relates this ancient text to today’s issues and questions. I currently offer single or multiple sessions in Justice and Prayer.
Secrets in the Torah – A close look at verses in the Torah (called the “Old Testament” by many) to learn how Jewish tradition and interpretation reveals hidden meaning.
The Basics of Judaism – An introduction to Judaism and the Jewish way of life, drawn from my book, Judaism, for those new to Jewish study.
A more expansive list of available sessions may be found here.
For testimonials about Rabbi Wildstein’s teaching sessions, click here.