The Stranger Among Us: Who is the "Ger" of the Torah?

Tuesdays, February 6, 13, 20, 27 | 7:00 pm, via Zoom

Rabbi Neal Gold

1. Who is the Biblical GER ("stranger" "the minority in your midst")?

In our first class, we'll investigate the Bible's description of the GER, in stories and in law, as we explore our legal and ethical responsibilities as well as our emotional identification with the strangers in our midst. 

2. The Responsibilities of Power

Jewish law expects that those with power and authority demand responsibilities towards others.  This, perhaps, is the grandest experiment of Zionism and the State of Israel: What are the responsibilities of creating a Jewish society, especially towards the minorities in a Jewish State? 

3. What is "Membership" in the Jewish community?

The boundaries of Jewish communities have always been porous, allowing newcomers to join in the fate of the Jewish people. How have Jewish communities defined "membership" throughout the ages, and how does one become Jewish? 

4. Rediscovering the Mitzvah of Hakhnasat Orchim/Welcoming Guests

Creating a community of welcome has been a Jewish imperative since the time of Abraham. An investigation of the Jewish sources will teach us a lot about this particular Mitzvah and the meaning of community.

Offered on Zoom. Meeting link is posted in the directory sent to Temple members and friends -- please check your most recent temple email.