From our earliest years at home and school, the Jewish holidays often feel like a comfortable presence in our lives. But with that comfort and familiarity, we may fall into a grave and highly consequential intellectual error: the error of assuming that the surface understanding of a novice could suffice for the deeper and more sophisticated knowledge that the Jewish tradition, in all its breadth and depth, has to offer. In this seminar, we will explore the major themes—the theological first principles—that animate the Jewish calendar. This spring, we will study the modern holidays of Yom Hashoa, Yom HaAtzmaut, and Yom Yerushalayim—as well the period of the Omer leading up to Shavuot and the reception of the Torah. We will conclude our studies with the tragedy of Tisha B’Av and the joy of Tu B’Av. Drawing on the teachings of Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, and Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, among others, we will suggest that an entire philosophy of Judaism can be drawn from the familiar practices, prayers, and customs that undergird the Jewish Year—in all its beauty, meaning, and sophistication.

Tikvah’s online seminars and educational programs for 7th and 8th graders are generously supported by Jennifer and David Millstone.