In the Clefts of the Rock – Discovering the Hidden Jewels of Shir HaShirim

Title: In the Clefts of the Rock – Discovering the Hidden Jewels of Shir HaShirim
Program: Open Circle Jewish Learning Texts and Traditions
Instructor: Rabbi Mona Strick
Day/time: Thursdays 7-8:30pm Eastern Time
Dates: October 12, 19, 26, November 2, 9, 16, 30, December 7, 2023
Session: Fall 2023
Location: Hybrid, In person at Boston Synagogue and on Zoom
Cohort: Boston Synagogue
Fee: $320 Financial scholarships available

Rabbi Akiva said that if all the other Books of the Bible are considered “Kedoshim” (Holy) then Shir Ha Shirim must be considered “Kodesh Kodashim” (the Holiest of the Holy.)

Join us for a journey into Song of Songs, a spectacular love poem. In addition to being erotic and evocative it contains some of the most beautiful and unique Biblical language. Neither God nor Israel is mentioned in this scroll, one of the five megillot in the section of Ketuvim (writings) Why is this conversation between lovers in the TaNaKh? What is holy about it? How is it connected to Shabbat and Passover (the occasions when we read it.)

We will look closely at the text, together with a variety of translations and midrashim, and similar ancient love poetry. This remarkable book, only 8 chapters long, contains mystical secrets and is an invitation to open our own hearts to a powerful love.

Hebrew College Open Circle Jewish Learning is open to learners of all backgrounds.

Canadian and other registrants from outside of the US: please email Cindy Bernstein to complete your registration. We apologize for the inconvenience.

“I think the Pirkei Avot course with Rabbi Strick was great! I didn’t know anything about that book and I was so intrigued with how Rav Mona took the ancient texts and applied them to our world today.” Elaine Ruback, participant in Rabbi Mona Strick’s Fall 2022 Open Circle Jewish Learning Course, Pirkei Avot.