I recently asked Hebrew Seminary faculty member Rabbi Laurence Edwards, Ph.D, what areas of Jewish studies do you view as most important to the 21st century Rabbi?
In some ways it might seem that Jewish study for rabbinic students today would be pastoral care, psychology, crisis counseling, and such. Yes, it is important to know these subjects, but in my view it is most important that a rabbi be a teacher and student. One must never stop studying and delving deeper into Jewish studies. That is the only thing that gives the title of rabbi any credibility. Rabbis need to know the history, the texts, and the literature. We need to be competent in both text and tradition. If we don’t have that, then the authenticity is gone. I don’t feel that I totally live up to this standard, but I aspire to it.
Hebrew Seminary invites those considering the rabbinate to sit in on a class during the upcoming fall semester. Or, better yet, audit a class and experience the learning, capture the connection! 847/679-4113
Fall Semester 2016 – 2017
September 18, 2016 – February 3, 2017
(Breaks: Oct. 2–18; Oct. 24-25; Nov. 24-27; Dec. 25 – Jan. 7)
Kabbalah: Reincarnation – Rabbi Dr. Douglas Goldhamer
Zohar – Rahmiel Hayyim Drizin
Biblical Hebrew – Rabbi Shari Chen & Rabbi Cantor Michael Davis
Talmud – Rabbi Cantor Michael Davis & Rabbi Daniel Vaisrub
Practical Rabbinics: Liturgy for Life Cycle Events – Rabbi Rob Jury
Practical Rabbinics: Weddings & Funerals – Rabbi Cantor Michael Davis
Psychology: Interviewing Skills for Rabbis – Dr. Stephanie Kutzen