What It Is About
YESOD is an innovative Judaism course launched by the Streicker Center at Temple Emanu-El, New York City. The program aims to offer students a deep dive into Jewish history, culture, and knowledge, guided by esteemed educators and influential figures.
Why It Matters
This initiative comes at a critical moment as a new and worrisome episode in Jewish history unfolds. By equipping students with a profound understanding of their heritage in the context of contemporary events, YESOD reinforces the resilience and cohesion of Jewish identity and community.
A Timely and Critical Educational Endeavor
Under the skilled direction of Dr. Gady Levy, the Streicker Center has crafted YESOD to meet a surging demand for Jewish learning and community. With instructors such as Rabbi David Wolpe and Michael Berenbaum, students have engaged with central figures in Jewish thought.
Navigating Historical Depth Amid Crisis
Starting shortly after October 7, when Hamas initiated a new conflict, YESOD has offered students a unique perspective on how Jewish history provides insight into modern challenges. Dr. Levy notes the urgent need for community during these tumultuous times, quoting Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks: “When we face challenges and danger, we need to respond by becoming more Jewish.” YESOD has successfully enabled participants to reaffirm and deepen their Jewish identity during this critical juncture.
The Curriculum and Teaching Faculty
Developed by visionaries like Rabbi David Wolpe and Abigail Pogrebin, the course covers vast historical and cultural topics. Next year’s focus will be on Jewish holidays and how various communities in New York celebrate them. Significantly, the curriculum has adapted to incorporate pressing current events and their historical resonance.
Reflection and Relevance in Tough Times
Teachers like Elana Stein Hain have integrated discussions of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict with broader narratives of Jewish perseverance and prophecy. This approach aids students in contextualizing present crises within the rich tapestry of Jewish history and resilience.
Resilient Enrollment and Engaged Learners
Despite the unsettling times, enrollment in YESOD has remained robust. Rabbi Joshua Davidson observes that instead of driving people away, the current crisis has made learners keen to deepen their understanding and engagement with Jewish life and teachings.
The Core Message
YESOD is as much about imparting knowledge as it is about building a unified, informed community. With the principles of Judaism at its heart, the course aims to offer participants an enriched comprehension of their identity. In the words of Rabbi David Wolpe, crises amplify the need to understand “why our tradition matters so much and how much Judaism has to contribute to the world.”
This story was first published on jpost.com.