Dear Friends:
Last Thursday 0ur Adult Education classes resumed after a break for the summer and then the holidays of Tishrei. We began with An Opportunity to Process: Israel At War, US Elections, Etc. As a general rule Iplan to alternate between a text-based class on “Pirkei Avot,” the Mishnaic tractate which provides the ethical basis of our tradition, and occasional classes or discussions on current events or specific topics. If you have suggestions for future classes -- either single sessions or longer explorations -- please let me know. My goal is to provide education about things which interest you.
Why You Should Take My Pirkei Avot Class
Pirkei Avot, also known as Ethics of the Fathers, is a compilation of ethical teachings and maxims from the Jewish sages. It is a treasure trove of wisdom that has guided generations of Jews in their pursuit of a meaningful and ethical life.
Here are a few reasons why you should consider taking my Pirkei Avot class:
Gain Timeless Wisdom: Pirkei Avot offers timeless wisdom that is relevant to people of all ages and backgrounds. The teachings in this text address fundamental questions about how to live a good life, how to treat others, and how to find meaning and purpose.
Connect with Jewish Tradition: Studying Pirkei Avot is a wonderful way to connect with Jewish tradition and heritage. This text is a cornerstone of Jewish ethical thought and has been studied and cherished for centuries.
Engage in Meaningful Discussion: My class will provide a space for open and engaging discussion. We will explore the text together, sharing our insights and perspectives.
Apply the Teachings to Your Life: The goal of studying Pirkei Avot is not just to gain knowledge but to apply its teachings to our own lives. My class will help you to reflect on the text's messages and consider how they can guide your own actions and decisions.
Regardless of whether you consider yourself to be “religious” or not, I believe that you will find something of value in Pirkei Avot. I invite you to join me on this journey of exploration and discovery. Access the text here: https://www.sefaria.org/Pirkei_Avot.1?lang=bi
As a reminder, I am having drop-in hours on Thursday afternoons from 2 to 4 at the shul. For my drop-in hours, you do not need to make an appointment -- that would negate the whole point of drop-in hours -- but I’d urge you to check and make sure I am there regardless as sometimes there are unavoidable pastoral or other emergencies which might take me away from the building.
As always, if I can do anything for you or you need to talk, please contact me at rabbi@kehilatshalom.org or 301-977-0768 rather than through the synagogue office. I am happy to meet you at the synagogue by appointment; if you want to speak with me it’s best to make an appointment rather than assuming I will be there when you stop by.
Additionally, if you know of a Kehilat Shalom congregant or another member of our Jewish community who could use a phone call, please let me know.
L’shalom,
Rabbi Charles L. Arian
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