Starts September 26, 2021 and Continues for a Full Year
The study and interpretation of Jewish texts is one of Judaism’s oldest and richest forms of spiritual practice. At IJS, we approach text study not only as an intellectual experience of the mind, but as an opportunity for spiritual growth and development. For over 20 years, we have produced fresh and new weekly study materials to help people of all backgrounds to find meaning, expand their awareness, and create a community of practice through shared reading and reflection. Whether you are new to the study of the Jewish textual tradition or you’ve been studying and practicing for many years, we invite you to join this community, deepen your connection, and bring the light of Torah into your life and the world.
This year, we are pleased to offer a Basic and Advanced Track from Rabbi Dr. Erin Leib Smokler:
BASIC TRACK:
Sefat Emet on the Parsha: Themes of Healing and Holiness
ADVANCED TRACK:
Noticing the Nekudah (Inner Point): Pathways to Discernment with the Sefat Emet
The Sefat Emet (Rabbi Yehudah Aryeh Leib Alter of Gur, 1847-1905) was a Hasidic Rebbe known for his keen insight, spiritual and emotional sensitivity, and accessible Torah.
Every week you will receive:
- Text of the Week
- Study Materials
- Related Spiritual Practice
Also included:
- Each course will have five, online, faculty-led live practice sessions at the conclusion of each of the five books of the Torah
- Access to an archive of all the texts and materials from previous weeks’ teachings
Rabbi Dr. Erin Leib Smokler is the Dean of Students and Director of Spiritual Development at Yeshivat Maharat, where she teaches Hasidism and Pastoral Torah. She is also a faculty fellow of the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America. She earned her PhD and MA from the University of Chicago’s Committee on Social Thought and her AB from Harvard University. She received ordination from Yeshivat Maharat. Rabbi Dr. Leib Smokler is the editor of the recently published volume Torah in a Time of Plague: Historical and Contemporary Jewish Reflections (Ben Yehudah Press 2021).
For All Learners
Sefat Emet on the Parsha:
Themes of Healing
and Holiness
The Sefat Emet (R. Yehudah Aryeh Leib Alter of Gur, 1847-1905) was a Hasidic Rebbe known for his keen insight, spiritual and emotional sensitivity, and accessible Torah. Join us for a weekly exploration of his Torah commentary and the unique ways that it charts a path toward healing and holiness.
$299
$249
That’s less than $5 a week!
For Advanced Learners
Noticing the Nekudah (Inner Point):
Pathways to Discernment with the Sefat Emet
The teachings of the Sefat Emet (R. Yehudah Aryeh Leib Alter of Gur, 1847-1905) are part commentary, part spiritual guidance. Join us for a deep dive into this text–and its inter-texts–as we explore how Torah interpretation might yield personal insight.
$299
$249
That’s less than $5 a week!
Student + Educator Rate: $49 for either program
If you are a student or educator, please fill out the form below for instructions on how to register at the discounted rate.
