TWO Classes:
Introduction to Kabbalah
Wednesday evenings, July 14th, 21st, and 28th at 7:00 p.m.
Children of Abraham: Comparing Judaism, Christianity, and Islam
Wednesday evenings, August 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th at 7:00 p.m.
Via Zoom: Rabbi Lotker’s Zoom Room – https://zoom.us/j/8190896166
“Introduction to Kabbalah” (July 14, 21, 28)
A three-week exploration of the world of Kabbalah we will explore the simple (is it kabb-a-LAH or ka-BAL-ah?) to the deep (how does the interpretation of word echad in the Shema affect our understanding of God’s nature and our relationship with God). Learn about the history and practices of Kabbalah. There will be time for questions and discussions. CLASS ONE: An Introduction to some of the key ideas about Kabbalah and its interesting history. CLASS 2: Introduction to the central text of Kabbalah, The Zohar which is a work of pseudepigrapha (don’t know what that means? Come and find out!). Discuss the 10 Sefirot, the world of Gematria, the mystical names of God and more. CLASS THREE: Explore Lurrianic Kabbalah, the Soul, Angels, Hasidim and focus on enhancing Jewish spirituality.
Children of Abraham: Comparing Judaism, Christianity and Islam.(August 4, 11, 18, 25)
About half the people of the world worship the God of Abraham as members of faith traditions that trace themselves back 4000 years to this inspired individual. In four classes, Rabbi Lotker will introduce these three faiths with a special emphasis on their similarities and differences. Read texts from the Hebrew Bible, the Christian Scripture and the Koran relating to the Garden of Eden, Abraham, Moses, and others to help understand the fascinating history and theology that shape our worlds to this day. Explore differences in beliefs, historical origins and the reasons behind historical and current conflicts. Take a detailed look at Holy Neighborhood of Jerusalem and the sacred sites to be found there.
Will the sessions be recorded? Yes and they will be sent to you by email and also posted on my YouTube channel.
Is There a Fee? No, the classes are sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Ventura County and Joel & Barbara Aaronson & The Affordable Living Choices Trust in my role as Community Rabbi. You can donate to them here at https://www.jewishventuracounty.org/ways-to-give.
How do I register? Simply Email Rabbi Lotker lotker@aol.com (you will get class reminders and alerts of changes -if any)
Can Bring a Friend? Sure! Just pass along this e-mail
Many Jews are surprised to learn that Judaism has always held that there is something beyond the grave – a life in the “world to come.” We just don’t know (or teach) the details because no one has come back to tell us and because Judaism’s focus is on this life. In this class, we will explore the wide range of authentic Jewish beliefs about the afterlife and how these beliefs have affected Jewish traditions of burial and mourning. In our sessions we will examine what the Bible has to say, the Rabbinic and Talmudic thoughts and commentaries, the amazing world of medieval commentary, mystical and kabbalistic insights and well as what modern thinkers contribute. We will also explore the world of Jewish funeral and mourning customs and their origins.
.