Tanach (Hebrew Bible) / Beginner · Starts June 6, 2026
The Book of Genesis: Back to the Sources
In this course we will start "at the beginning". It is the point of entry par excellence to the study of Judaism in depth. Firstly, we will read a good selection of texts from the book itself, and study them as "pshat", in their contextual settings of ancient Near Eastern culture, and in accordance with the approaches of Modern Biblical Criticism and Modern Literary Criticism. Secondly, once we have a clear rational grasp of the text itself, we will delve into the source of power of these sacred writings of the Hebrew Bible, based on Classical Rabbinic commentaries. Thirdly, we will apply tools of various Modern psychological schools to understand the stories of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs of the Jewish people and their impact on our own self-understanding as human beings. And finally, we will integrate everything within the framework of the religious philosophy of Abraham Joshua Heschel.
Normal price
$180
Community price
$54
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
The students will have gained a deep introduction into the most fundamental perspectives of the Hebrew Bible and Judaism, that form the basis of unique understanding of the existential situation of human beings and humankind.
The students will acquire mastery of the main methodologies of reading the texts of the Hebrew Bible, the Book of Books, from multiple traditional and academic perspectives.
The students will enter into an online learning community led by Rabbi Yattah that will significantly enrich their spiritual lives and their understanding of Judaism.
Classes
Class sessions
Each class includes readings, recordings, and downloadable materials once you enroll.
- 2Creation, Human Dignity and the Birth of Moral Responsibility: Genesis 1-11
- 3Abraham and Sarah: Covenant, Journey, Faith, and Moral Courage: Genesis 12-25
- 4Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Esau: Family Systems, Blessing, Conflict, and Transformation: Genesis 25–36
- 5Joseph, Judah, and the Formation of Israel: Dreams, Power, Reconciliation, and Providence: Genesis 37–50