The Book of Proverbs: A Social Justice Commentary
Presented by the Schwartz/Reisman Centre for Adult Jewish Learning
Wednesdays, January 11 – February 22, 12;00 pm
With Rabbi Samuel Kaye
“My child, if you accept my words and treasure up my commandments;
If you make your ear attentive to wisdom and your mind open to discernment;
If you call to understanding and cry aloud to discernment;
If you seek it as you do silver and search for it as for treasures;
Then you will understand the awe of God
And attain knowledge of the Divine.”
(Proverbs 2:1-5)
The words of King Solomon, as preserved in the book of Mishlei (proverbs), are a little-appreciated and under-utilized Jewish text. Often criticized for being vague or contradictory, even the idea of a ‘proverb’ is seen by many as folksy wisdom of a bygone era. But the ancient insights inside of the book of Mishlei are especially relevant to the world today. Why am I here? What does it mean to live a good life? When will I have enough? Who cares about me? Where can I find meaning? Join Rabbi Samuel Kaye as he explores the ancient wisdom of Mishlei, through the teaching of Rabbi. Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz of Valley Beit Midrash. Rabbi Yanklowitz has recently published a new translation and commentary, examining the proverbs through the lens of social justice. Together we will learn and examine how this ancient scroll can be applied to the issues of today; environmentalism, income inequality, animal rights, feminism, and more.
This course will be presented hybrid. The Zoom login option will be provided at registration.
