Finding Your Way Into the Mishnah: Tools for Studying Rabbinic Text
Fall 2026

Finding Your Way Into the Mishnah: Tools for Studying Rabbinic Text

Program: Hebrew College Adult Learning
Instructor: Rabbi Benjamin Barer
Dates: 10 Wednesdays: 10/21, 10/28, 11/4, 11/11, 11/18, 12/2, 12/9, 12/16, 1/6, 1/13
Time: 12:30-2:00 p.m. ET
Course fee: $360, financial aid is available
Location: Zoom
Hosted by: Hebrew College
Registration: Click here

This 10-session course is an invitation to develop the skills and habits that will help you find your own way into relationship with the Mishnah—the foundational, world-building text of rabbinic Judaism.

We will learn how to read the Mishnah in its original language (Rabbinic Hebrew) closely and begin to develop the tools needed for independent study. Participants will practice decoding rabbinic texts, working with dictionaries and other core study tools, and recognizing the logical moves and terminology that shape rabbinic argument and discussion. Along the way, we will explore how the Mishnah’s language, structure, and composition create layers of meaning that are not always immediately apparent.

Each 90-minute session will combine brief lectures, group discussion, and chevruta (paired) study, with approximately one hour of preparation between sessions. No prior experience studying Mishnah is required.

Over the course of the class, participants will gain:
• Skills for decoding and reading rabbinic texts
• Basic familiarity with dictionary tools
• An understanding of key rabbinic terminology
• Greater confidence and independence in approaching Mishnah on their own

Prerequisite: Comfort enunciating vocalized Hebrew text; no prior background in learning rabbinic texts necessary. If you are unsure whether this class is the right level for you, please reach out Rabbi Ben Barer.

For additional information or questions, contact the Hebrew College Adult Learning Team

Sponsor an Adult Learning Class
We warmly invite you to consider dedicating your class in loving memory or honor of a dear one by making a gift in support of Jewish learning. Simply use our secure form and indicate in the text box that this is your class sponsorship. Please be sure to write the class name so your thoughtfulness can be recognized by your instructor. (Suggested minimum gift of $360). Thank you!