Jewish Thought and Philosophy / Beginner · Starts August 1, 2026
Abraham Joshua Heschel: The Last Great Master of Judaism
Abraham Joshua Heschel was one of the most profound Jewish thinkers of the twentieth century: a Hasidic soul, a modern philosopher, a scholar of the prophets, a poet, a theologian, and a public religious voice who spoke with moral authority in moments of historical crisis. This course will explore Heschel’s life, works, and enduring relevance. We will follow his journey from Hasidic Warsaw to secular Vilna, from Berlin and Frankfurt to London and America, and from academic scholarship to prophetic public leadership. Through his major writings, we will study his vision of God, Torah, mitzvot, prophecy, religious experience, interfaith dialogue, civil rights, peace, and the spiritual destiny of Israel and humanity. The central question of the course will be: What does Heschel teach us about being religious, Jewish, morally responsible, and spiritually alive in the modern world?
Normal price
$180
Community price
$120
Duration
8 hours
What is included
A complete learning track
HD class recordings, Digital certificate included, and Live Zoom access.
Four 2-hour online ,live ,intimate sessions through Zoom.
Maximum number of participating students: 12, to maintain the intimacy of the group and the high level of the classes.
Assigned prior readings in preparation for the classes, with PDFs to facilitate access.
Assigned follow up readings, with PDFs to facilitate access.
Power Point Presentations in the classes, accessible after class to course participants for review.
Audiovisual materials provided.
Forum for conversations in between classes and Q&A with Rabbi Yattah.
Outcomes
What students will be able to do
Classes
Class sessions
Each class includes readings, recordings, and downloadable materials once you enroll.
- 2Heschel’s Life and Works, 1907–1972 From Hasidic Warsaw to the Moral Voice of America
- 3Heschel, Philosopher of Religion and Judaism God in Search of Man, Radical Amazement, Revelation, and Mitzvot
- 4Heschel, the Modern Prophet Speaking Truth to Power History, Revelation, Prophecy, Civil Rights, Vietnam, and Israel
- 5Heschel as a Builder of Bridges Between Religions: "No Religion is an Island"