Course Catalog

Midreshet HaRova מדרשת הרובע

ת ש ע ” א 1 1 - 0 1 0 2

1 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1 Introduction Educational Philosophy Since its inception in 1990, Midreshet HaRova has provided a unique study experience It is a basic tenet of the educational philosophy of the , that study should for hundreds of young women from all over the world. With the Jewish Quarter of not be viewed as merely an academic and intellectual pursuit, but should, first and ’s as a backdrop, students at the Midrasha enjoy an unparalleled setting foremost, help shape one’s personality. With this in mind, each student at the Midrasha in which to develop spiritually and intellectually, thus preparing themselves to make an is encouraged to maximize her personal growth according to her individual needs impact as educated Jewish women in both Israel and the Diaspora. and interests. The educational program at the Midrasha emphasizes independence in learning through Chavruta study, while at the same time offering an extraordinary array of courses designed to allow each student the opportunity to delve into areas of personal interest. Classes are small, averaging only twelve to fifteen students per class, facilitating a high degree of student faculty interaction. History The educational philosophy that drives the Midrasha views the Overseas Program as a holistic experience, From a small program with a handful of students from the Southern Hemisphere, Midreshet neither limited to the classroom nor bound by the traditional academic calendar. The Midrasha never closes HaRova has developed into one of Israel’s leading seminaries. Midreshet HaRova currently its doors, even during times that classes are not in session, so students are never at a loss for activities during sponsors more than half a dozen programs, serving over four hundred women from vacation time. During their time in Israel, Midrasha students tour extensively, participate in enriching seminar Israel and from around the globe. From a single building, the Midrasha now comprises a programs, and are introduced to a wide range of Israeli society , all the while deepening their attachment to multi-building campus in the Old City, as well as several off site locations both within and the people and the land of Israel. outside of Jerusalem. With the addition of the Betty and Joseph Koppelowitz Study Hall, the Midrasha now boasts a modern Beit with seating for 150 students. In 2009 the school was officially renamed Midreshet HaRova, Advanced Torah Academy for Women in the name of Andre Faculty Veres in recognition of a major gift from the Veres family. The Overseas Program is directed by David Milston. Originally from , The student body at Midreshet HaRova is a mosaic of the Jewish world, with women hailing from Israel, Milston was ordained by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel after many years of study at Yeshivat North America, Great Britain, Continental Europe, South Africa and Australia. United by their motivation to Har Etzion, where he studied under Yehuda Amital and . Prior learn and their thirst for spiritual growth, they live and study together, learn from and about each other, and to that, he earned his bachelor’s degree at College in , where he was a coalesce into a single unit. The singular nature of this group gives the Midrasha its unique, Talmid Muvhak of Rabbi Isaac Bernstein, zt”l. unmatched character. With an ideal blend of youth and experience, the faculty provides the intellectual spark which illuminates the Midrasha. Their varied educational backgrounds provide a broad canvas for students seeking direction and searching for answers. Through the warmth of their personalities, women coming to the Midrasha find a group of role models to whom they can relate The Overseas Program and strive to emulate. at Midreshet HaRova The Overseas Program at Midreshet HaRova, is an intensive program, designed for the Student Life highly motivated student who wishes to accomplish the maximum during her time at the Midrasha. Classes Students are housed in either the Midrasha dormitory or in local apartments, all located begin at 8:30 AM and continue until 10:00 PM, with many students staying in the Beit Midrash past that time. a short walk from the main building. With airy public spaces, balconies and landscaped courtyards, the Midrasha housing facilities provide an ideal atmosphere for students to Overseas students also benefit from the close relationship with the Midrasha’s program for young Israeli relax during their free time. women who have completed their Sherut Leumi service. All overseas students maintain at least one weekly Chavruta with their Israeli counterparts. Socially, participants on the two programs interact freely, sharing becomes a singular experience when spent in the Old City. Whether singing and rooms, spending Shabbatot together and enjoying joint tiyulim. dancing at the Kotel on Friday night, or enjoying meals and programs in the company of friends and visiting faculty members, students infuse the spiritual setting of the Rova with the of the Midrasha. All students are strongly encouraged to participate in a weekly volunteer program, travelling to area hospitals, schools, clinics, and homes, lending a hand to less fortunate individuals. The Midrasha views these and other acts of chesed organized independently by the student body, as inseparable parts of the program. The Midrasha provides three nutritious meals daily. Constant supervision is provided by experienced madrichot, who are overseen by on-campus house parents. 2 3 Midreshet HaRova Timetable 5771 T i m e S u n d a y M o n d a y T u e s d a y W e d n e s d a y T h u r s d a y 9:00-9:55 Halacha Bekiut Torah Bekiut Electives 8:30 - 9:50 Halacha Bekiut Torah Bekiut 08:30 – 9:55 Rav Berg [Beg-E] 7 Current Affairs - Rachel Himelstein [E] 13 Rav Shames [Beg/Int-E] 24 Rav Berg [Beg-E] 7 Rav Shames [Beg/Int-E] 24 Tanya Cohen [Int-E] 7 Educational Leadership Program- Rav Berg [E] 12 Rav Susman [Int-E] 24 Tanya Cohen [Int-E] 7 Rav Susman [Int-E] 24 Rav Milston [Adv-NH] 7 Torat HaIsha - Miriam Wolf [E] (Machshava) 20 Rav Bailey [Adv-H] 24 Rav Milston [Adv-NH] 7 Rav Bailey [Adv-H] 24 Rav Yonatan [Adv-SH] 7 Ulpan - Shoshana Be'eri 12 Gemara Bekiut - Rav Avigdor 27 Rav Yonatan [Adv-SH] 7 Gemara Bekiut - Rav Avigdor 27 Shemirat Halashon -Yehudit Tamir [E] 23 Neviim Bekiut - Rav Yonatan 8 Neviim Bekiut - Rav Yonatan 8 Mesilat Yesharim - Rav Milston [H] 17 Ulpan - Shoshana Beeri 12 8:30 - 9:55 Ulpan - Shoshana Beeri 12 Torah She Baal Peh - Rav Avigdor [Adv-H] 26 Bet Midrash - Judith Fogel Torah She Baal Peh Chumash BeIyun 10:00 – 11:10 Torah She Baal Peh Chumash BeIyun Rav Susman [Beg-E] NH 26 Rav Berg [Beg-E] 6 Five Megillot - Yona Fish [E] 9 Rav Susman [Beg-E] NH 26 Rav Berg [Beg-E] 6 Rav Bailey [Int-E] 26 Yona Fish [Int-E] 6 Shemoneh Perakim - Yehudit Tamir [H] 18 Rav Bailey [Int-E] 26 Yona Fish [Int-E] 6 Rav Shames [Int-H] 26 Rav Bailey [Int-E] 6 Bekiut Mishna - Judith Fogel [E] 27 Rav Shames [Int-H] 26 Rav Bailey [Int-E] 6 Rav Avigdor [Adv-H] 26 Rav Avigdor [Int-H] 7 Torat HaIsha - Miriam Wolf [E] 20 Rav Avigdor [Adv-H] 26 Rav Avigdor [Int-H] 7 Rav Uri Cohen [Adv-E] 7 Drama and Tenach - Devorah Starr 12 Rav Uri Cohen [Adv-E] 7 Rav Yonatan [Adv-H] 7 Ulpan - Shoshana Be'eri 12 Rav Yonatan [Adv-H] 7 Machshava Tanya - Rav Shames [E] 20 Machshava Miriam Wolf [E] 18 Torah She Baal Peh - Rav Avigdor [Adv-H] cont’d 26 Miriam Wolf [E] 18 10:05 – 13:00 Rav Krengel [E] 18 Bet Midrash - Rav Susman Rav Krengel [E] 18 11:20 – 12:30 Midrash and Aggadah- Rachel Himmelstein [E] 8 Chovot Hatalmidim - Rav Shames [E] 19 Drama and Tenach - Devorah Starr cont’d 12 The Man, The Nation, The Challenge - Yehudit Tamir [E] 20 Law and Order - Yona Fish [E] 25 Ulpan - Shoshana Be’eri 12 Bet Midrash - Rav Avigdor, Announcements 12:30 13:00 – 15:00 Electives Electives 1:45 -3:45 Electives Electives Electives Poetry and Song in Prayer - Rav Shames [E] 24 What’s in a - Tanya Cohen [E] 25 From Exile to Redemption - Rav Milston [E] 15 Yearly Calendar - Rav Krengel [E] 16 Torat HaIsha - Judith Fogel [E] 20 Sfat Emet - Rav Krengel [H] 10 Drashot HaRan- Rav Susman [E] 20 1:45-2:45 Nashim Be Tanach - Miriam Wolf [H] 8 Personal Status in J. Law - Rav Berg [E] 23 Hilchot Shabbat -Rav Berg [E] 22 Israeli Chavrutot Biblical Personalities - Rav Yonatan [E] 10 Kuzari - Rav Landa [H] 17 Torat, Am v’Medinat Yisrael-Rav Chwat [H] 16 15:00 – 16:15 Contemporary Halacha - Rav Bailey [E] 23 Navigating Torah She’Beal Peh - Rav Shames [H] 27 3-3:45 Siyurim - Rav Susman, Rav Shames 14 Medical Ethics - Rav Weitzman [E] 25 Methodology - Rav Yonatan [E] 13 Beit Midrash - Rav Milston Hilchot Moadim - Rav Yonatan [E] 22 Refuah and Halacha - Yonah Fish [E] 25 Ben Adam L’chavero - Rav Yonatan [E] 23 Bet Midrash - Rav Susman Hitnadvut Option 1 Sefer Daniel - Rav Ron [E] 9 Hilchot Shabbat - Rav Shames [H] 22 Art Option 1 12 Bet Midrash - Rav Bailey Beit Midrash Hilchot - Rav Berg [E] 22 Taamei HaMikra - Tanya Cohen [E] 10 Rav Soloveitchik - Rav Krengel [E] 18 Kitvei Rav Kook - Rav Weitzman [E] 16 Eliyahu and Elisha - Rav Yonatan [H] 9 Strive for Truth - Rav Milston [E] 17 Massechet Derech Eretz - Rav Ron [H] 27 Hilchot Kashrut - Rav Berg [E] 22 Torah and Psychology - Rav Krengel [E] 21 Bet Midrash - Rav Susman HaSipur HaChassidi - Rav Landa [H] 21 Torat, Am v’Medinat Yisrael-Rav Chwat [H] 16 16:25 – 17:40 Halacha LeMaaseh - Rav Horn [E] 24 4:00 - 7:00 Siyurim cont'd 14 Torat HaIsha - Judith Fogel [E] 20 Pirkei Avot - Rav Bailey [E] 19 Art Option 2 (6:00 pm) 12 Contemporary Halacha - Rav Bailey [E] 23 Bet Midrash - Rav Yonatan Moreh Nevuchim, Concepts in Rambam - Rav Greenfield [H] 17 Machshevet HaRamban - Rav Greenfield[H] 10 Bet Midrash - Rav Shames Hitnadvut Option 2 Bet Midrash - Yonah Fish The Jew in a Non-Jewish World - Tanya Cohen [E] 24 Thirteen Principles Of Faith - Rav Krengel [E] 17 Questions in Emunah - Rav Chwat [E] 19 Hilchot Shabbat - Rav Berg [E] 22 Klali - Rav Milston [E] Derech Hashem - Rav Ron [E] 18 Confronting Modernity - Rav Yonatan [E] 18 Contemporary Jewish Thought - Rav Yonatan [E] 21 Blind Date - Yonah Fish [E] 21 Machshevet Hatefilah - Rav Weitzman [H] 16 Writings of Rav Hirsch - Rav Krengel [E] 19 Tehillim/ - Rav Bailey [E] 9 Hilchot Brachot - Judith Fogel [E] 22 17:50 – 19:00 Yehoshua/Shoftim - Rav Horn [H] 8 Orchot Tzadikim - Rav Tobianau [H] 20 Bet Midrash - Rav Berg Sefer Shmuel - Rav Bailey [E] 9 Tannaitic Personalities - Rav Greenfield [H] 14 Beit Midrash Beit Midrash

Seder Erev Seder Erev Seder Erev Seder Erev Bet Midrash - Rav Yonatan Bet Midrash - Judith Fogel Bet Midrash - Yona Fish Bet Midrash - Rav Yonatan 20:00 - 21:00 Israeli Chavrutot 8:30 - 10:00 20:00 – 22:00 Topics in - Rav Horn [E] 19 Israel Advocacy - David Project 14 21:00 - 22:00

Parshanut on the Parsha - Rav Horn [E] 11 can be found course where page in catalog Numbers indicate ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1

BIB 105-106 Torah SheBichtav, Intermediate/Advanced Level Department of Bible The Book of Exodus In this class we will be studying The Ten Plagues in depth. Each verse will be carefully parsed and attention will be given to details that are often overlooked. A primary focus of the course is to appreciate the way the classic medieval commentators understood Chumash, and their different approaches to exegesis. Special תורה שבכתב Important Note: Students register for courses 101-109 based on skill level. The topics covered emphasis will be placed on the thorough understanding of Rashi, Ibn Ezra, Ramban, Sforno and other may vary from year to year; second year students may therefore register for the same course they Rishonim. This elaborate approach to the text will also give rise to broader discussions of fundamental issues have taken previously. that arise from the storyline. Rav Avigdor Meyerowitz BIB 101-102 Torah SheBichtav, Basic Level Monday and Thursday 10:05 – 13:00 (H) The Book of Genesis/Exodus [4 credits per semester] Students in this course will study Sefer Bereishit and Shmot. Issues such as Am Yisrael, the Avot, Eretz Yisrael, and Emunah will be confronted through a deep analysis of the text. Stress will be placed on developing BIB 107 – 108 Torah Shebichtav, Advanced Level textual skills, using Rashi, Ramban, and later meforshim. The Book of Numbers Rav David Berg This course will study Sefer BaMidbar in depth, combining textual analysis with a combination of classical and Monday and Thursday 10:05 – 13:00 (E) modern commentaries. Emphasis will be placed on understanding how the various exegetes related to text. [4 credits per semester] Rav Yonatan Horovitz Monday and Thursday 10:05 – 13:00 (H) BIB 103-104 Torah SheBichtav, Intermediate Level [4 credits per semester] The Book of Genesis This course will take us on an exciting journey back to the times when the Jewish nation was in its formative BIB 107a-108a Torah Shebichtav, Advanced Level stage. We will closely examine those different events and episodes in the lives of the Avot and the Imahot The Book of Deuteronomy which shaped them both as individuals and as the patriarchs and matriarchs of an entire people. We will especially focus on those issues and elements which are most relevant in today’s contemporary discussion This course will study Sefer Devarim systematically, using a wide range of classical and modern commentaries. and dialogue by combining textual and literary analysis as found in the writings of classical and modern Each session, we will use a new source sheet, which will provide all the relevant texts. The shiur will focus on commentaries, such as: Ramban, Radak, Rav Samson Rafael Hirsch, Natziv, Prof. Nechama Leibowitz and the sources which the students find most problematic or interesting. many others. Rav Uri Cohen Yona Fish Monday and Thursday 10:05 – 13:00 (E) Monday and Thursday 10:05 – 13:00 (E) [4 credits per semester] [4 credits per semester] BIB 110-111 Bekiut Torah – Survey of The Pentateuch BIB 103-104 Torah SheBichtav, Intermediate Level This is a survey course designed to familiarize students with large The Book of Genesis/Exodus sections of the Torah and select passages with the commentary of Rashi. The English sections of this course will focus on the In this class we will study the final chapters of Sefer Breishit and the first half of Sefer Shemot. Understanding Parshat HaShavua, while the Hebrew section will cover the that the Torah is our manual for life, it is incumbent upon us to understand its moral and ethical value system entire Torah. even through its characters and their stories. In this course, through the focused utilization of textual analysis along with a complement of classical commentaries, we will not only learn the skills with which to properly Rav David Berg (E) dissect the Torah’s text, but walk away with a greater and deeper understanding of Hashem’s intended Tanya Cohen -- Intermediate (E) messages as conveyed through the biblical narrative and enumerated mitzvot. Rav Yonatan Horovitz – Intermediate (E) Rav Jonathan Baily Rav David Milston – (H) Monday and Thursday 10:05 – 13:00 (E) Monday and Thursday 8:30 – 9:55 [4 credits per semester] [3 credits per semester]

6 7 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1

BIB 116-117 Joshua and the Judges BIB 131-132 Sefer Shmuel – The Book of Samuel This course provides an in-depth study of the book of Joshua, following the realities of conquering and A study of the book of Shmuel based on a close reading of the biblical text. We will cover the entire sefer’s settling the land, and extrapolating the underlying spiritual messages. The study of the book of Judges text, while highlighting the main themes of the book such as leadership, kingship, and the successes and will provide a meaningful understanding of the book and its aim, by analyzing the position of each of the failures of David and Shaul. While emphasis will be placed on the biblical text, parshanut and midrash will be main judges, Devora, Gidon, Yiftach, Shimshon. In addition it is designed to train students to use traditional studied when relevant to the understanding of the book. meforshim (Rashi, Radak, Ralbag, Malbim and others) as well as more modern techniques. Rav Yonatan Bailey (E) Rav Jesse Horn Sunday 17:50-19:00 Sunday 17:50-19:00 (E) [1.5 credits per semester] [1.5 credits per semester]

BIB 133-134 Tehillim – The Book of BIB 123-124 Survey of the Prophets (Bekiut Tanach) This course is designed to delve into one of the best known but least understood sections of Tanach. By Students will be required to prepare 5 or more chapters of Tanach a week. The weekly lecture will summarize use of literary analysis we will attempt to uncover the themes and lessons underlying some of the oft-used the general themes of the chapters covered together with the highlights of the stories. The aim of this course psalms. Attention will be paid to the use of metaphor, symbol and language. is to provide a general overview of the books of Neviim Rishonim. Rav Yonatan Bailey Rav Yonatan Horovitz Wednesday 17:50-19:00 (E) Sunday 9:00 – 9:55, Wednesday 8:30 – 9:55 (H) [1.5 credits per semester] [3 credits per semester]

BIB 137-138 The Five Megillot

BIB 125-126 Midrash and Aggada This course will take an in-depth look at the episodes in the five Megillot, with the goal of showing how they apply to our everyday lives. Emphasis is placed on developing textual skills, using a variety of sources Midrashei Aggada, which we first hear as stories in early childhood, are often later dismissed as silly and including Rashi, Chazal, Metzudot, and other classical meforshim. simplistic, or simply incomprehensible. In this course, we will delve into both the content and form Yona Fish of Midrashic literature. We will discover different styles of Midrash, its use of language and metaphor, its relationship to the Biblical text, and above all its meaning and purpose. A reasonable command of Hebrew Tuesday 10:00 – 11:10 (E) text is recommended. [1.5 credits per semester] Rachel Himmelstein Tuesday 11:20 – 12:30 (E) BIB 145-146 Eliyahu and Elisha [1.5 credit per semester] We will study in depth the chapters of Sefer Melachim which encompass the stories of these two Neviim. Issues discussed include the role of the prophet, miracles, and their place in Tanach. BIB 127-128 Nashim BeTanach – Women in the Bible Rav Yonatan Horovitz This course covers portraits of the women Sunday 16:25 – 17:40 (H) who appear in Tanach through the [1.5 credits per semester] eyes of Chazal. Individuals studied will include Sarah, Rivka, Rachel, BIB 153 The Book of Daniel Leah, Miriam, Tzippora, Devora, Esther and Ruth. Daniel is possibly the most mysterious book in the Tanach. Can we unravel the mysteries of Daniel’s visions? Were these visions purely Messianic, or were they relevant to Daniel’s own historical period? Was Daniel a Miriam Wolf prophet? We will approach the Book of Daniel as an important window into the life of the Jews in Babylonian Wednesday 15:00-16:15 (H) exile, and as the historical link between the First and Second Temple periods. [1.5 credits per semester] Rav Zvi Ron Wednesday 15:00-16:15 (E) [1.5 credits per semester] (This course is only offered in the Fall semester)

8 9 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1

BIB 155-156 Biblical Personalities BIB 175-176 Parshanut- Biblical Exegesis This course will attempt to discover more about some of the less dicussed characters in Tanach. We will draw This class has three basic goals. Firstly, we will focus on the development of textual analysis, both of on textual analysis and comparison, midrashic comment and metaphor and a range of commentaries in Chumash, and the commentaries. We will cover questions such as, what problems in the text bothered the order to determine how each character affected his time period and Biblical history in general. commentaries and how they read their ideas back into the text. Secondly, we will attempt to train students Rav Yonatan Horowitz to develop theories and build ideas needed to solve problems and answer questions. Lastly, we will cover famous and important positions of the cmmentaries regarding world view, personality analysis and larger Tuesday 13:45-14:45 (E) biblical themes [1.5 credits per semester] Rav Jesse Horn Sunday 21:00-22:00 (E) BIB 157-158 Machshevet HaRamban – The Thought of [1.5 credits per semester] This will be a textually based course. We will concentrate each week on a few commentaries of the Ramban that touch upon various issues in Machshava. By studying this text we will learn about some of the fundamental BIB 177-178 Drama and Tanach principles of the Ramban’s outlook on Torah & Mitzvot as well as learning how to approach a Ramban and appreciate his outstanding commentary on the Torah. This class is identical to JA 103-104 Rav Yossi Greenfield Wednesday 16:25-17:40 (H) [1.5 credits per semester] This course was formerly titled Nachmanides’ Commentary on the Torah.

BIB 163-164 Taamei HaMikra – The Grammatical Basis of the Bible This course is designed to give students a background into the nature of the Bible. We will focus on the authorship of the various books of the Bible and its structure. We also focus on a study of the traditional cantillations of the Bible, thereby sharpening skills necessary to read passukim correctly. Tanya Cohen Monday 16:25 – 17:40 (E) [1.5 credits per semester]

BIB 165-166 Sefat Emet on the Torah The Sefat Emet, which was written by Rav Yehuda Aryeh Leb of , is one of the classic works in Chassidic literature. In this course we will focus each week on a different passage from the works of the Sefat Emet. In this way we will investigate a Chassidic approach to Biblical exegesis, as well as the basic Chassidic concepts which underpin the Sefat Emet’s thought. If time permits, we will also touch upon themes in the Festivals Rav Yisrael Krengel Sunday 15:00 – 16:15 (H) [1.5 credits per semester]

10 11 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1 Department of and Ulpan Department of חינוך עברית HEB 101-102 Ulpan JED 103a-104a Educational Methodology and Theory This is an intensive one-year course focusing on Hebrew comprehension and spoken language skills. This course will explore the aims of Jewish and General Education. Techniques needed to both prepare and Shoshana Beeri deliver classes will be discussed, and methods of teaching a variety of Jewish subjects will be covered. It is Sunday 9:00-9:55, Tuesdays 8:30-12:30, Wednesdays 8:30-9:55 (H) also designed to give students the opportunity to prepare and deliver shiurim. Students will be expected [6 credits per semester] to present shiurim on a variety of subjects. The content and delivery will be discussed and evaluated by the class and the supervisor, with the intent of improving the participants’ teaching techniques. This course, in HEB 111-112 Education Leadership Through The Arts conjunction with the Jewish Educational Theory, Field Work, and Ulpan courses is part of the Tochnit Chayil Education Leadership Program. This course is designed to teach the principles of informal education in an interactive setting. The course is broken down Rav Yonatan Horovitz into segments, focusing on various areas of informal education. There will be a Hebrew test at the end of this course Sunday 15:00-16:15 (E) Various instructors depending on the segment . Tuesday 8:30 – 9:50 (H) [1.5 credits per semester] [1.5 credits per semester]

JED 105-106 Avoda Maasit – Field Work This course, in conjunction with Teaching Methodology, Ulpan, and Jewish Educational Theory courses, is part of Department of Jewish Art the Tochnit Chayil Education Leadership Program. The course includes various types of field work, a) Classroom, b) Tutoring and guidance of Israeli students, c) Involvement and running of Shabbatonim for immigrant youth. .Participation requires a commitment of at least 3 Shabbatot as scheduled by the program director אומנות JJA 101-102 Artistic Expression Rav David Berg (E) [2 credits per semester] Students in this course choose a common theme that they then research in traditional sources while expressing the theme through a variety of artistic mediums. A full description of the Jewish Art program and its aims can be found elsewhere in this catalog. JED 109-110 Current Events Rachel Himmelstein (E) In this course we will discuss and debate various Israeli and international news items. We will take a look at Tuesday 13:30-15:45 (mandatory session), Tuesday 16:00-18:00 (optional session) how these issues impact our daily lives, from the perspective of religious women, and as people who are [each session - 2 credits per semester] exposed to journalism outside of Israel. This class will enable you to expand your Israel experience by living and learning about Israeli news as it develops and becoming acquainted with local politicians and culture. We will analyze on a weekly basis the latest updates in Israeli local news and international JA 103-104 Drama and Tanach journalism and learn what is going on behind the scenes. We will follow news items and watch This class will explore and analyze the narrative portions of how they develop over the weeks while familiarizing ourselves with Israeli newspapers and Tanach from a dramatic perspective. Student will use theater become acquainted with their particular slant. Together we will reflect on these topics and arts as a way to increase their understanding of various expand our understanding of our role in these changing times. Biblical personalities and Pesukim in the Torah. This Rachel Himmelstein hands-on approach to Torah learning is challenging Tuesday 8:30-9:50 (E) and exciting. The performance elements of this [This class is not for credit] class will serve as a form of expression as well as an assessment of the areas of study. This course is also numbered BIB 177-178. Devorah Starr Tuesday 10:00-12:30 (E) [3 credits per semester] 12 13 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1

Department of Jewish History JHI 123 Post Talmudic History This course covers the period from the close of the to the end of the Geonim. The focus is on why events developed the way they did and how that period of history impacts us today. Among other topics, we will learn about the first siddur, how and when the Talmud was written, the first responsa literature, the היסטוריה first legal codes, what brought the Geonic period to a close, and why yeshivot today study Gemara the way JHI 109-110 and Israel Advocacy they do. In this course we will examine the history and development of Zionism with an emphasis on the Arab- Rav Zvi Ron Israeli conflict as it has developed over the past century. Special attention will be paid to how the conflict is Wednesday 15:00-16:15 (E) presented in the media and on campus and students will study effective strategies for Israel advocacy. [1.5 credits per semester] TBA (This course is only offered in the Spring semester) Thursday 20:30-22:00 (E) [2 credits per semester] JHI 125-126 From Holocaust to Redemption The aim of this course is to chronologically follow the rise of Hitlerism until its eventual downfall, showing JHI 111 Jerusalem through Time the plight of the Jewish people at each stage of these developments. We will also explore the birth of the These walking tours will deal with different historical periods of the city of Jerusalem: the period of the Jewish State in the aftermath ofteh Holocaust. We will use audio visual sources with much original footage as First Bet HaMikdash, the Second Bet HaMikdash, Middle Ages, the Modern Era, the expansion of Jerusalem a starting point for each subject matter. The course aims to emphasize the factual side of the Holocaust. On outside of the Old City, and the battles in 1948 and 1967. In addition, we will be studying secondary sources occasion, as time permits, we will deal with certain moral or ethical issues that arise directly from our studies. and telling stories and folklore of the various sites. We will use the tours as a springboard, not only for the Rav David Milston study of Jerusalem, but to learn about famous personalities and events. Tuesday 13:45-15:45 (E) Rav Ari Shames, Rav Michael Susman [2 credits per semester] Wednesday 15:00-17:40 (E) [3 credits per semester] (This is a one semester course)

JHI 117-118 Tannaitic Personalities With the tragedy of the destruction of the Temple fresh in their memories, a small group of Rabbis banded together to help reshape Jewish life. This course offers students a first hand look into the early formulation of the Mishna through the eyes of such key Tannaitic figures as Rabban Gamliel, Rabbi Akiva, Rabbi Yehoshua and others. Rav Yossi Greenfield Wednesday 17:50-19:00 (H) [1.5 credits per semester]

14 15 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1

JPH 113-114 Thirteen Principles of Faith Department of Jewish Philosophy This course will begin with an attempt to understand what are fundamentals of faith, and why they are necessary. We will then have an in-depth discussion of each one of the Rambam’s principles, while comparing it to the Rambam’s writings in other places and to the views of others. Through our study we will see how the thirteen principles of faith create a clear difference between on one hand, and Christianity and מחשבה Islam on the other. JPH 103-104 Machshevet HaTefilla-The Philosophy of Prayer Rav Yisrael Krengel How often do you really feel the need to pray? Philosophical issues of prayer are raised as we study different Wednesday 17:50 – 19:00 (E) sections of the siddur. [1.5 credits per semester] Rav Gideon Weizman Thursday 17:50 – 19:00 (H) JPH 115-116 Strive For Truth [1.5 credits per semester] This course will deal with the mussar of Rav Eliyahu Dessler through his sefer Michtav Me’Eliyahu. The following topics will be discussed: truth, choice, nature, faith, and kindness. JPH 105-106 Torat Eretz Yisrael – The Philosophy of Rav David Milston This is a foundation course on the philosophy of Religious Zionism. It covers four main units. Monday 16:25 – 17:40 (E) The Role of Am Yisrael - the State of Israel / the “3 vows” / Fixing new festivals / The Israeli Army/ The Hebrew [1.5 credits per semester] language / relations between religious and non-religious. The Redemption - with or without repentance / Mashiach Ben Yosef / Signs of Geula JPH 117-118 Messilat Yesharim – Path of the Just The Land of Israel - the center of Judaism / Torah and mitzvot / Mitzvat HaAretz / Leaving Eretz Yisrael We will be studying this sefer from the very beginning, with an aim to complete an initial study by the Torah VeAvoda, Yerushalayim – Temple and Kingship, Seat of Hashem, of justice, and the House of David / year-end. The work comprises 27 chapters including the introduction. However, our real objective is more king, prophet, sage and priest / balance and separation of power. emphatically in the qualitative area. The work is a compendium of wisdom and real understanding of life. By Rav Ari Chwat intense study, and introspection, we hope to discover the pathway to Hashem. Thursday 15:00-16:15 (H) or 16:25-17:40 (E) Rav David Milston [1.5 credits per semester] Tuesday 8:30-9:50 (E) [1.5 credits per semester] JPH 107-108 The Writings of Rav Kook Rav Kook was one of the greatest modern Jewish philosophers. He was a prolific writer who wrote on many JPH 119-120 Sefer HaKuzari – The Book of the Kuzari topics. In this course we will look at a number of different articles written by Rav Kook and try to develop a This course will be an in-depth analysis of the thought of Rabbi Yehuda HaLevi. Topics covered include perspective on his philosophy, and on what exactly it is that distinguishes his approach. the basis of Jewish belief, the concept of the Jews as the Chosen people, prophecy, purpose of Torah and Rav Gideon Weitzman Mitzvot, and the place of Israel in the thought of Rabbi Yehuda HaLevi. Special emphasis will be placed on Thursday 16:25 – 17:40 (E) contrasting the philosophy of Rabbi Yehuda HaLevi with that of the Rambam. [1.5 credits per semester] Rav Ari Landa Wednesday 15:00-16:25 (H) JPH 111-112 The Yearly Calendar [1.5 credits per semester] This course aims to give a philosophical understanding to each holiday as a unit, and to the yearly cycle as it develops from one holiday to another. A wide range of sources including Tanach, Mishna, Gemara, Rishonim, JPH 121-122 Moreh HaNevuchim- ’ Guide to the Perplexed and Achronim are used. This course will attempt to give an introduction to Maimonidean thought through understanding various Rav Yisrael Krengel parts of the Guide. This course will also place an emphasis on Rambam’s place within medieval philosophy Wednesday 15:00 – 16:15 (E) in general and Jewish Medieval Philosophy in particular. It will also probe the Neo-Platonic and Aristotelian influences in the Moreh and how the Moreh has influenced later Jewish thought. [1.5 credits per semester] Rav Yossi Greenfield Sunday 16:25-17:40 (H) [1.5 credits per semester] 16 17 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1

JPH 125-126 Introduction to the Philosophy of Rav Soloveitchik JPH 143-144 Ethics of our Fathers We will examine some basic and recurring themes in the Rav’s philosophy, using a number of texts written in We will analytically study the text of the Mishnayot from the tractate Avot. Using the symbolic, structured English. and metaphoric nature of the chosen texts, we will be able to glean the integral lessons of our ancestors as Rav Yisrael Krengel they apply to our life as Jews. This course is also numbered TAL 123-124 Wednesday 16:25 - 17:40 (E) Rav Jonathan Bailey [1.5 credits per semester] Sunday 16:25-17:40 (E) [1.5 credits per semester] JPH 127-128 Confronting Modernity JPH 147 –148 Introduction to Jewish Philosophy This is an informal course focusing on discussion of how Traditional Judaism confronts modern problems. Source material will be taken from classical and modern Jewish philosophers as well as articles reflecting This course will investigate topics in Jewish Thought through the study of the philosophies of various Jewish contemporary issues of interest. thinkers throughout the ages. Topics which we will cover include: The role of man; the relationship between Rav Yonatan Horovitz man and G-d; the Jewish people and the Land of Israel. Thursday 17:50 – 19:00 (E) Rav Jesse Horn [1.5 credits per semester] Sunday 20:00-21:00 (E) [1.5 credits per semester] JPH 129-130 Shmoneh Prakim– Maimonides’ Introductions JPH 153-154 Chovat HaTalmidim – A Chassidic Approach to Moral Development and Education This course involves the study of the Introduction of the Rambam to Masechet Avot, with emphasis on specific topics, such as man and his strengths; prophecy; divine providence. In this course we will study the work of Kolonomus Kalman Shapiro, known for his inspirational sermons Yehudit Tamir in the final days of the Warsaw ghetto. The book focuses on a program of spiritual development geared towards the modern youth who have a unique sense of maturity and self guidance. This is a work of a Tuesday 10:00-11:10 (H) Chasiddic master with a phenomenal sense of his community and its challenges that remains very relevant [1.5 credits per semester] to the contemporary reader. Rav Ari Shames JPH 131-132 Machshava – Jewish Thought Tuesday 11:20-12:30 (E) This foundation course discusses some of the key components of Jewish philosophy throughout the ages. [1.5 credits per semester] Study will be done through primary sources. Topics covered include Torah and Mitzvot, the place of the individual in Klal Yisrael, Torah She Baal Peh, and others. JPH 155-156 Issues of Faith Miriam Wolf (E) or Rav Yisrael Krengel (E) Using a variety of sources, this course will examine basic issues of faith. Both text and discussion will be Sunday and Wednesday 10:00 – 13:00 utilized. Topics to be discussed include: proving the existence of Hashem, the Chosenness of Israel, and [4 credits per semester] the truth of the Torah, defining emunah, man and his destiny, free choice, evil in the world, repentance, understanding mitzvot, life after death, and other topics of interest raised by the students. JPH 141-142 Derech Hashem – The Path of G-d Rav Ari Chwat This course is an in-depth analysis of Derech Hashem, a presentation of the mystical approach to understanding Thursday17:50-19:00 (E) the way God runs the world and the purpose of our existence. We will compare Derech Hashem to other [1.5 credits per semester] works of Ramchal, and to differing approaches within the world of Jewish thought. JPH 159-160 Writings of Rav Samson Raphael Hirsch Rav Zvi Ron This course is a survey of the collected writings of Rav Hirsch, focusing on Chorev, Commentary to Torah, as Wednesday 17:50-19:00 (E) well as selected essays. We will also deal with the historical background of the Jewish community in 19th [1.5 credits per semester] century Europe, as well as the Hirschian concept of . The course demands extensive outside readings. Rav Yisrael Krengel Sunday 17:50-19:00 (E) [1.5 credits per semester] 18 19 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1

JPH 161-162 The Discourses of Rabbenu Nissim of Gerona Rabbenu Nissim of Gerona was one of the major figures during the era of the Rishonim. In this course we JPH 181 -182 Torah and Psychology will study his discourses and compare and contrast his approach to critical areas of Jewish Thought with that In this course we will be taking a close look at relationships in our lives, including relationships with ourselves, of other Classical Jewish thinkers. with others and with Hashem. In order to achieve this, we will be looking at some of the basic theories of Rav Michael Susman psychology and comparing and contrasting them to Torah sources. Monday 15:00-16:15 (E) Rav Yisrael Krengel [1.5 credits per semester] Sunday 16:25 – 17:40 (E) [1.5 credits per semester] JPH 165-166 Torat HaIsha – Women in Modern Society In this course we will discuss issues pertinent to women in modern society. Special attention will be paid JPH 183-184 Hasippur HaCHassidi – The Deeper Meaning of Hassidic Tales to the interaction between religious and modern values, as well as possible conflicts between them. This Chassidic Stories, often dismissed as childish or unimportant, in fact represent from a different course is also numbered JUD 127-128. perspective. In this class we will study the stories of Chassidic Masters such as and Rabbi Tuesday 8:30-9:50 or 10:00-11:10 Miriam Wolf (E) Nachman of in order to uncover deeper ethical message of each story. Thursday 15:00-16:15 or 16:25-17:40 Judith Fogel (E) Rav Ari Landa [1.5 credits per semester] Wednesday 16:25-17:40 (H) [1.5 credits per semester] JPH 171-172 The Book of Tanya The Book of Tanya, written by Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the founder of the Chabad Lubavitch Hasidic dynasty, is JPH 185-186 Blind Date- How to Build a Jewish Home recognized as one of the basic guides to the philosophy of Chassidut in general and to the philosophy of Chassidut Choosing a proper spouse, building and maintaining a strong Jewish home, seems much harder in modern Lubavitch in particular. In this course we will try and understand the “Torah of the Soul” of Lubavitch, as well as society than it did in the past. This reality is evident in the growing divorce rate world-wide. In this course examine the path of a loyal Jew and his inner conflicts as seen by this sect of Chassidim. we will attempt to identify those ingredients which Jewish tradition and contemporary psychology view as Rav Ari Shames essential in creating a secure and satisfying Jewish family life. We will focus primarily on the dating period and Tuesday 10:0-11:10 (E) the first year of marriage, discussing issues such as choosing an appropiate spouse, division of responsibility [1.5 credits per semester] between husband and wife, how to communicate and argue, relationships with in-laws, and much more. Yona Fish JPH 175-176 Orchot Tzadikim – The Ways of the Righteous Wednesday 17:50-19:00 (E) [1.5 credits per semester] We will study this classic work of Mussar, authored anonymously in the Middle Ages, and search for the applicability of its lesson to modern life. Rav Michael Tobiano JPH 187-188 Contemporary Jewish Thought Wednesday 17:50-19:00 (H) We will be introduced to various issues in Jewish [1.5 credits per semester] Philosophy through the eyes of great Jewish thinkers of our generation. Subjects which will be covered JPH 179-180 The Man, The Nation The Challenge include human and Divine What is our role in the world? We will explore this question through the prism of the circles of life as a morality, the parameters of biblical person, as a woman, as a spouse and as part of Am Yisrael. In our study we will examine sources from Tanach, interpretation, social affects on Midrash, and both early and later commentaries. halacha and others. Students should Yehudit Tamir expect to do preparatory reading out of class time. Tuesday 11:20-12:30 (E) Rav Yonatan Horovitz [1.5 credits per semester] Sunday 17:50-19:00 (E) [1.5 credits per semester]

20 21 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1 Department of Judaic Studies JUD 115-116 Personal Status in Jewish Law This course deals with areas that affect the personal status of a Jew. The aim of the course is to develop a deep halachic understanding of the issues of marriage, conversion, adoption and many other interpersonal .issues הלכה Rav David Berg JUD 101-102 Hilchot Shabbat – Laws of the Sabbath Thursday 15:00 – 16:15 (E) This is a thorough and intensive course in which all aspects of Shabbat are studied in depth. Together with [1.5 credits per semester] texts we explore all the positive and negative mitzvot of Shabbat. Our aim is to cover all Halachic aspects of Shabbat in a complete manner as well as delving into chassidic insights to the holiness of Shabbat. Rav David Berg JUD 119-120 Laws of Slander (Shemirat HaLashon) Sunday 15:00-16:15 or 17:50-19:00 (E) In this course we work through the legal work of the Chafetz Chaim, Shemirat HaLashon. The aim of the [1.5 credits per semester] course is to become familiar with the laws concerning lashon harah and rechilut. The course also deals with trying to understand the power and the influence of the words we speak, as well as our motivation for speaking lashon harah. JUD 103-104 Hilchot Shabbat V’Moed – Laws of the Sabbath and Festivals Yehudit Tamir An in-depth study of Hilchot Shabbat and Moadim, firmly based in the primary sources, and their application Tuesday 8:30-9:50 (H) to present day issues. The course requires an ability to read the with the Mishna Brura. [1.5 credits per semester] Rav Ari Shames JUD 121-122 Ben Adam LeChavero – Laws of Interpersonal Behavior Thursday 15:00-16:15 (H) This course will survey the laws governing social interaction. The topics covered will include areas of civil law, [1.5 credits per semester] honoring other people, revenge, and interaction with non-Jews. Rav Yonatan Horovitz JUD 103a-104a Hilchot Moadim – Laws of the Festivals Thursday 15:00-16:15 (E) An in-depth study of Hilchot Moadim, firmly based in the primary sources, and their application to present [1.5 credits per semester] day issues. The course requires an ability to read the Shulchan Aruch with the Mishna Brura. Rav Yonatan Horowitz JUD 125-126 Contemporary Issues in Jewish Law Tuesay 15:00 – 15:45 (E) We will survey halachic responses to contemporary issues by use of both parallels [1 credit per semester] in the Gemara and Rishonim, and modern Halachic literature. Examples of subjects discussed are abortion, plastic surgery, gambling, and astrology. JUD 107-108 Hilchot Kashrut – Dietary Laws Rav Jonathan Bailey This is a thorough course covering all aspects of Kashrut. We explore important issues such as Hechsherim, Sunday 15:00-16:15 or Wednesday 16:25-17:40 (E) Halachic problems with milk and meat in the kitchen, food prepared by non-Jews, bugs in food, and general [1.5 credits per semester] kashrut issues. Upon completing the course, one should know how to keep ‘Kosher’ in the best possible way. Rav David Berg JUD 127 – 128 Torah HaIsha, Women in Modern Society Sunday or Thursday 16:25-17:40 (E) This course is identical to JPH 139 – 140. [1.5 credits per semester]

JUD 129-130 Bekiut Halacha Survey of Basic Concepts in JUD 113-114 Hilchot Brachot-Laws of Blessings This course deals with the laws of blessings. Subjects that will be covered include: Various brachot; the text of brachot; what to do if you have a doubt as to whether or not you’ve said a bracha; what to do if you say the wrong bracha or a bracha that you were not meant to; the intention needed for brachot; saying a bracha for someone else. Judith Fogel Thursday 17:50 – 19:00 (E) [1.5 credits per semester] 22 23 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1

Jewish Law JUD 157-158 Refuah and Halacha This class, which focuses on independent Beit Midrash study, is designed to give participants a wide breadth This course provides an in-depth study of various contemporary issues concerning the beginning of life of knowledge of Jewish Law, as well as to teach skills required for independent study of the Mishna Berura. and the end of life, examined from a Halakhic, ethical and legal point of view. We will study some of the The first section begins with study of Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, and shifts to Mishna Berura over the course of more fascinating cases that have recently drawn world attention and learn how these cases were dealt with the year. The other three sections begins their study using the Mishna Berura. by lawyers, judges and rabbinic authorities. Among the topics covered in the course will be: abortion, self Rav Ari Shames (E-Basic/Intermediate) defense, suicide, euthanasia, scarce medical resources, organ donation, artificial insemination. Rav Michael Susman (E-Intermediate) Yonah Fish Rav Jonathan Baily (H-Advanced) Wednesday 15:00-16:25 (E) Sunday 9:00-9:55, Wednesday 8:30-9:55 [1.5 credits per semester] This class was formerly named Life and Death [3 credits per semester] JUD 161-162 Medical Ethics JUD 129a-130a Practical Halacha/ Survey of Basic Concepts in Jewish Law When does life begin? When and how does it end? Can one donate a kidney while still alive? What about terminating a pregnancy? We will study the classic and modern sources that answer these and many more This course is designed to give participants a wide breadth of knowledge of Jewish Law, as well as to teach questions in the fascinating and relevant area of medicine and halachah and discover an exciting interface skills required for independent study of the Mishna Berura. Classes will focus on topics covered in the first between ancient texts and the most modern medical treatments. two volumes of the Mishna Berura, including the laws applicable to an individual upon awakening in the morning, prayer and blessings. This class is recommended for students who are not enrolled in JUD 129-130 Rav Gideon Weitzman Rav Jesse Horn Thursday 15:00-16:15 (E) Sunday 16:25-17:40 (E) [1.5 credits per semester] [1.5 credits per semester] JUD 163-164 Law and Order- Jewish Law in a Jewish State JUD 131-132 The Jew in a Non-Jewish World Ever since the establishment of the state of Israel, Israeli society has struggled with the question: what should be the proper relationship between a contemporary Israeli legal system and the Halachic legal tradition. This course will study the halachot associated with the relationships between Jews and non-Jews, and the In this course, we will look at real legal decisions from the Israeli courts and examine their rulings from the halachot that are related to the non-Jewish world. Specific topics include the kashrut of food prepared by perspective of both Israeli law and Jewish law. Through this review we will highlight the essential analytic, non-Jews; gentile practices; Shabbas Goyim; the prohibition of stealing from a non-Jew; the obligation of ethical and moral similarities and differences between the two systems. the non-Jew in the Seven Noahide Laws; entering a church and a mosque. This course will also address the attitude of the Jewish philosophers toward non-Jews, such as their attitude towards Christianity and Islam. Yonah Fish Tanya Cohen Tuesday 11:20-12:30 (E) Sunday 17:50-19:00 (E) [1.5 credits per semester] [3 credits per semester] JUD 165-166 The Role of Custom in Jewish Law JUD 135–136 Poetry and Song in Prayer This class will begin with a study of the status of custom (minhag) in Jewish Law. It will continue with an The course will study the text of the various poems used in our tefilot and the “zemirot” of Shabbat. Before exploration of various minhagim, concentrating each holiday, we will study a specific work related to the holiday (eg. Avinu Malkanu or Maoz Tzur), and for on tracing the evolution of each particular the sessions in the middle of the year we will concentrate on Shabbat. We will learn about the authorship of minhag and the reasons behind it. The focus will each work and study the text itself in detail in order to track the sources that inspired the poem. Each session be on minhagim associated with the holidays will focus on a separate poem. - connecting the study of particular minhagim Rav Ari Shames with chagim as they occur. We will also explore Sunday 15:00 – 16:15 (E) minhagim of the Jewish life-cycle. [1.5 credits per semester] Tanya Cohen Monday 15:00-16:15 (E) [1.5 credits per semester]

24 25 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1

study of the Gemara text with Rashi and Tosafot. The class time will supplement self study by assuring a thorough Department of Talmud understanding of what was learned and through the introduction of additional material. Emphasis will be placed on constant revision (chazara) as a tool for retaining material and developing independent study skills. Rav Avigdor Meyerowitz (Sunday and Wednesday 10:05 – 13:00, Tuesday 8:30-11:10 (H תורה שבעל פה Important Note: Students register for courses 101-109 based on skill level. The topics covered may vary from year to year; second [6 credits per semester] year students may therefore register for the same course they have taken previously.

TAL 112-113 Bekiut Gemara (Talmud Survey) TAL 103-104 Torah SheBeal Peh, Intensive Talmud - Intermediate Level Students in this course will study selected chapters of the Talmud covering a variety of subject matter in order This course will introduce the uninitiated into the world of Gemara. Gemara is primarily a sophisticated study to acquire a wider perspective of talmudic concepts and methodology. We will be starting with Masechet of Mishna by Amoraim. Gemara analyzes mishna and its relationship with braita. It then engages in halakhic Megilah with the goal being to complete two Maschtot by the end of the year. analytic discussion based upon the earlier sources. Therefore the course will begin with the in-depth study Rav Avigdor Meyerowitz of Mishna. We will focus upon certain basic skills: understanding mishnayot, identifying the structure of a mishna and its central arguments, tracing wider trans-perek and masechet themes. Sunday 9:00-9:55, Wednesday 8:30-9:55 (H) Our Gemara study will aim to familiarize students with the page of the Gemara, its language, and style. [3 credits per semester] Emphasis will be placed on both understanding the text and the halakhic process. Rav Michael Susman TAL 113-114 Bekiut Mishna – Survey of Mishna Sunday and Wednesday 10:05 – 13:00 (E) This course is designed to give students a familiarity with basic Rabbinic concepts. Students spend the year [4 credits per semester] doing a survey of selected Mishnayot, focusing on the principles that each Mishna contains. Judith Fogel TAL 105 – 106 Torah SheBeal Peh, Intensive Talmud-Intermediate Level Tuesday 10:00-11:10 (E) In this class we will be studying selected sugyot from , of a contemporary nature. The text will be [1.5 credits per semester] studied in depth, with commentaries of both the Rishonim and Achronim. Special emphasis is placed on understanding the development of the material from “Pasuk to P’sak” from the Torah, via Mishna and Gemara, TAL 117-118 Navigating the Works of The Oral Law to Shulchan Aruch and modern day Responsa. The sugyot studied are pertinent to our everyday lives, and This course will provide hands on experience in the use of the major works The Oral Law. The students will be an analysis of them through the texts will often lead to a deepening of our understanding of their actual asked to track the development of a given issue from the earliest sources until the contemporary literature fundamental essence, beyond the halakhic realm. in a guided self study environment. Biographies of all of the authors will be prepared by the students in an Rav Jonathan Baily effort to place all authorities and their works in historical context. Sunday and Wednesday 10:05 – 13:00 (E) Rav Ari Shames [4 credits per semester] Monday 15:00-16:15 (H) [1.5 credits per semester] TAL 105a-106a Torah She Beal Peh, Intensive Talmud-Upper Intermediate Level This class focuses on the development of skills in study of Gemara and analysis of Talmudic language. The thrust TAL 121-122 Derech Eretz Zuta of the course is based on self-study with lectures devoted to reinforcing independently prepared material while In this course we will study Masechet Derech Eretz Zuta, one of the small tractates found at the end of more thoroughly developing the topics encountered. The year plan is to study in depth the tractate of Hullin. Nezikin. The Masechet deals with the proper way of life for a Jew, covering everything from ethical behavior Students are expected to devote time independent of official class hours in order to cover all assigned material. to eating habits. It collects the major mussar selections from the entire Talmud as well as much material that Rav Ari Shames is not found anywhere else. Sunday and Wednesday 10:05 – 13:00 (H) Rav Zvi Ron [4 credits per semester] Wednesday 16:25-17:40 (H) [1.5 credits per semester] TAL 107 – 108 Torah SheBeal Peh, Intensive Talmud-Advanced level This course is designed for students who are interested in devoting a substantial part of their year to developing TAL-123-124 Ethics of Our Fathers their Talmudic skills far beyond their present state. The aim of this course is to reach a high level of learning This course is identical to JPH 143-144 independence through the mastery of Talmudic texts. The bulk of the course will be devoted to self (chavruta) 26 27 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1 Academic Opportunities Guest Speakers Throughout the year, guest speakers are regularly invited to address the entire student body. The speakers include rabbanim, educators, as well as leaders and scholars from a wide variety of areas. This part of the Bekiut Program schedule provides the students with an excellent opportunity to meet, talk to and interact with prominent personalities from Israel and the Diaspora. As a cornerstone of the study program at the Midrasha, a strong emphasis is placed on developing a wide breadth of knowledge and skills in basic areas of . All students other than those registered for Ulpan are required to register for a section of Bekiut Halacha (JUD 129-130), Bekiut Gemara (TAL 111-112) or Shiur Klali Bekiut Nach (BIB 123-124) every Sunday and Wednesday, and Bekiut Torah (BIB 110-111) every Monday and Shiur Klali takes place on Mondays from 17:50-19:00. The shiur, generally given by Rav Milston, focuses on Thursday. In addition, students may take an optional course in Bekiut Mishna (TAL 113-114). These survey Parshat Hashavua. Attendance is mandatory for all students. courses all emphasize mastery of a wide range of material in each of these topics, as well as the development of skills for independent study of basic texts in each area. Hitnadvut - Voluntary Work An integral part of the educational program at the Midrasha consists of volunteer work. Hitnadvut opportunities Seder Erev include assisting the aged, assisting sick or handicapped children and their parents, and tutoring in English. All Seder Erev offers a range of study options designed to appeal to the varied interests of our students. Consult placement is done through the Hadracha staff. While not mandatory, participation in the Hitnadvut program is the course listings for further information. Seder Erev runs from 20:00 - 22:00, Sunday and Tuesday through strongly recommended. Students register for the program as part of the overall registration process. Thursday evenings. Faculty members – Judith Fogel, Yona Fish and Rav Yonatan Horovitz -supervise the Seder Erev program. Attendance is mandatory. Tiyulim The educational philosophy of Midreshet Harova stresses the link between Eretz Yisrael and Torat Yisrael. In Israeli Chavrutot order to strengthen this link, there are a number of one, two and three-day tiyulim over the course of the year. At various times over the course of the week, students on the Overseas Program study a topic of their choice Tiyulim span the length and breadth of the country and have been organized both in terms of educational with a chavruta from the Israeli program. Students should register for this Chavruta as part of the overall structure, as well as seasonal and agricultural stages of the year. Participation in all tiyulim is mandatory. course registration process. Poland Trip Judaism Through the Creative Arts The Midrasha conducts two yearly trips to Poland, one in the spring for Northern Hemisphere students and This program was created in response to the growing number of artistically talented young women who join the second during the summer, in conjuction with the MTA program, for Southern Hemisphere students. the Midrasha every year. The Midrasha offers interested students the opportunity to continue developing The trip focuses on both the beauty and legacy of the Jewish community of Eatern Europe, as well as on their artistic and drama skills within the structure of their studies at the Midrasha. the destruction of that community at the hands of the Nazis and their collaborators. Trip participants are Each week the students participate in a shiur that deals with a topic relating to visual arts or to drama. required to dedicate several hours to special preparatory lectures prior to their departure, as well as prepare In the art classes, emphasis is placed on the halachic issues that arise for the religious art student. ceremonies and presentations which are given in Poland. The cost of the trip is not included in tuition. Participants in the program aim to produce a combination exhibit or production that has a shared theme, (There is no additional charge for MTA participants) also reflecting each student’s unique creative explorations and abilities. In addition, they are guidedto work independently on personal projects that build up their own private porfolio. Students are expected to research their subject in preparation for their individual efforts. Attention will be paid to the Jewish calendar year, with related art projects that will relect the nature of the Chagim. Special Study Options In the drama classes, the focus is placed on deepening one’s appreciation for the text of Tanach and to create In addition to the standard timetable, women on the Overseas Program can take advantage of additional greater understanding of the personalities who are central to our study of Tanach. This is accomplished by study options. Participation on these tracks is contingent upon approval of the program director. approaching Tanach from a dramatic perspective. The inspiring location of the Midrasha allows our work to be influenced on a spiritual level that only the Old City of Jerusalem can provide. We are privileged to be studying and creating art at this historic time and the Beit Midrash Option/Independent study program aims to reflect this. Students may choose this option for any time other than Sunday, Monday, Wednesday or Thursday mornings from 10:05-13:00. Participation in this option involves mentored independent study. Participating students Ulpan may be required to submit a project or paper on the topic studied. Credits will be granted either in parallel The midrasha offers an intensive Ulpan for students interested in developing their Hebrew Language skills in to existing courses or, in the case of students who are taking that course, as increased credit for the course. a formal classroom setting. Students interested in this option must register for all five Ulpan time slots. Thus, it is possible for a student to earn an extra credit and a half beyond the stated credit value of a given course, if she submits additional work done independently of the required course work. 28 29 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1 Tochnit Chayil - Education Leadership Program are encouraged to spend the time when classes are not in session in one of these frameworks. In this way, students This program seeks to enable students with leadership potential to acquire necessary skills in formal and can enjoy as much of the Israel experience as possible, from the moment they arrive until the time they must leave. informal education. The program meets on Sunday and Tuesday. The program consists of the following components: • Basic educational theory • Teaching methodology Living Arrangements The Midrasha provides three meals daily. Meals are served only at the times indicated on the schedule. Practical fieldwork including: • Classroom experience in an Israeli school • Tutoring of Israeli students • Students are required to participate in various toranuyot. Participation in the Kedma-ACHY Program (The International Organization of Observant Students) Ulpan - • Please remember that the Midrasha is your home. Students are expected to keep both their rooms and all Educational Leadership Through the Arts public areas neat and clean. Thank you for your co-operation. All inquiries should be directed to the program director. Telephones / Faxes / E-mail Second Year Program There is a phone system in the Midrasha, which is available for student use. The list of numbers is updated The second year program is designed to allow students who wish to dedicate another year to learning, the each year. Upon arrival, students are provided with the relevant numbers. opportunity to develop to the utmost. Each second year student personally designs a program of study with The office phone number is 02 626-5970, and should only be used in the case of emergency. the program director, in order to ensure that she meets her personal goals. Second year students may take Faxes can be received at 02 628 4690. advantage of a series of courses designed especially for them, or enter any first year class of their choice. Second year classes are numbered 200 and above, and registration in these clsses is limited to second year students only. Students may access their web based email accounts through the student email system. Seminars Security For security reasons the doors of all Midrasha buildings are locked at all times. Students will be given the In addition to the regular schedule of shiurim, Midreshet Harova sponsors a number of annual seminars. code necessary to enter the buildings. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD THESE CODES BE GIVEN TO Past seminar topics have included: Zionism, the Holocaust, Yerushalayim, the Evolving Role of Women in ANYONE OUTSIDE THE MIDRASHA. Judaism, Jewish Business Ethics, and the Jew in the Modern World. There is a daily curfew that is strictly enforced. Sunday through Thursday nights – curfew is 12:15am. Motzai All seminars involve Midrasha staff, experts in relevant fields and renowned Torah personalities. Participation Shabbat curfew is 1:15am. Students must be in any one of the Midrasha buildings by the designated time. in these seminars is mandatory, unless otherwise noted. At the time of curfew, the Madrichot check that all students are in. It is each student’s responsibility to ensure that she has been checked in. In case of breach of this critical security regulation, the program director will, in the company of the offending student, contact that student’s parents and inform them that if the situation recurs, the Midrasha will have no option other than to ask the student to leave. Students who are travelling General Information for Shabbat, must note this on the ‘Shabbat list’ before 13:00 on Wednesday afternoon. Students must leave Shabbatot a phone number of where they can be reached (a cell phone number is insufficient) before they leave for Shabbat. Please note that these rules are purely a security matter and are for your own safety. Shabbat at the Midrasha is an unforgettable experience. The seudot, combined with tefilla at the Kotel, create a truly spiritual atmosphere, unique to the Midrasha. Shabbat is shared with faculty members and Boys are not allowed either inside or in front of the Midrasha, or the Midrasha dormitories or apartments, at any time. their families who spend Shabbat with the students, giving shiurim and leading discussions and activities. Security regulations are continually reviewed and updated in light of the security situation in Israel. Any changes to the regulations will be communicated to both students and their parents in clear and timely fashion. Students who Shabbatot spent outside the Old City provide our students with the opportunity to encounter different fail to adhere to posted regulations are subject to action, up to and including suspension from the program. segments of Israeli society and experience Israel in an exciting, yet very real fashion. The Hadracha team supplements these Shabbatot with varied educational activities. There is generally a Midrasha shabbat once every three weeks. Students are expected to attend all of these Dress and Behavior Shabbatot. In the case of a conflict with a family simcha, or other event, permission may be received to miss The Midrasha believes that Tzniyut is a central value in Judaism, for both men and women. The educational a maximum of three shabbatot. The dates of Midrasha Shabbatot can be found in the annual schedule philosophy of the Midrasha views modesty in dress and behavior as a reflection of internalized values and not printed in this guide. of an imposed code. Nonetheless, students often find general guidelines helpful. Students at the Midrasha are expected to wear skirts that cover the knee, even when seated. Tight skirts, or skirts with excessive slits (ie. slits above the knee) are unacceptable. All shirts should have sleeves reaching the elbow and appropriate Guests on Shabbat necklines. Shirts should not rise above the top of the skirt at any time. Tight shirts of any kind are inappropriate, The Midrasha is always happy to enable its students to invite guests for Shabbat. However, space limitations and necklines should minimally come near the collarbone. If clothing is layered, there should be no gap require that this be co-ordinated with the Av and Eim Bayit. Guests may only be invited for scheduled in-Shabbatot. between the layers of clothing. Excessive ear piercings, as well as all other body piercings, are considered inappropriate for Midrasha students. Visiting pubs, smoking, drinking, and use of any controlled substance are strictly forbidden and are grounds for immediate dismissal from the program. It goes without saying that At the Midrasha, it is our belief that a year in Israel should be more than just nine months of study. We therefore students are expected to adhere to these norms at all times, whether the Midrasha is in session or not. provide our students with the opportunity to participate in enriching seminar and tiyul experiences. All students 30 31 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1 ח’ אדר א’ Annual Schedule Shabbat Midrasha Shabbat February 12 כ”ב אדר א’ Shabbat Midrasha Shabbat February 26 י”א אדר ב’ Thursday March 17 תענית אסתר Yom Iyun until 13:00 י”ג אדר ב’ Shabbat Midrasha Shabbat March 19 תוכנית שנתית ת ש ע ” א י”ד אדר ב’ Ellul Zman Purim Sunday March 20 ט”ו אדר ב’ Purim in Yerushalayim Monday March 21 ז’ אלול Arrival at the Midrasha Tuesday August 17 כ”ט אדר ב’ Last day of classes in Choref Zman Monday April 4 י”א אלול Shabbat Midrasha Shabbat August 21 כ”ט אלול Erev Rosh Hashana- no classes Wednesday September 8 Rosh Hashana – Home א’-ג’ Thursday - Shabbat September 9-11 Kayitz Zman תשרי Hospitality in Communities/ Free ד’ תשרי Limmudim until 13:00 Sunday September 12 – צום גדליה כ”ז ניסן Start of Kayitz Zman Sunday May 1 י’ תשרי in the Midrasha Shabbat September 18 כ”ח ניסן Yom haShoah Monday May 2 י”אתשרי End of Ellul Zman Sunday September 19 ג’ אייר Shabbat Midrasha Shabbat May 7 ה’ אייר Choref Zman Yom Ha’Zikaron Monday May 9 ו’ אייר Yom Ha’Atzmaut Tuesday May 10 כ”ד אייר Shabbat Midrasha Tzfat Shabbat May 28 כ”ז תשרי Regular classes resume Tuesday October 5 כ”ח אייר Yom Yerushalayim Wednesday June 1 א’ חשון Shabbat Midrasha Shabbat October 9 ה’ סיון Erev Shavuot – no limmudim Tuesday June 7 ט”ו חשון Shabbat Midrasha Shabbat October 23 ו’ סיון Shavuot in the Midrasha Wednesday June 8 ו’ כסלו Shabbat Midrasha Shabbat November 13 Shabbat- Hosted by the ט’ סיון Shabbat November 27 Shabbat Midrasha Shabbat June 11 כ’ כסלו Israeli Program י’ סיון Messibat Sunday June 12 כ”ו-ל’ כסלו Chanukah Break Friday- Tuesday December 3-7 End of Northern Monday June 13 י”א סיון Hemisphere year א’ טבת Messibat Chanukah Wednesday December 8 י”א כסלו Shabbat Midrasha Shabbat December 18 • There will be tiyulim approximately once every three weeks. Messibat Siyum MTA Wednesday December 22 .Exact dates will be posted throughout the year • ט”ו טבת Calendar is subject to change • ג’ שבט Shabbat Midrasha Shabbat January 8 י”ז שבט Shabbat Midrasha Shabbat January 22 ד’-ו’ שבט Eilat Tiyul Sunday- Tuesday January 9-11

32 33 ת ש ע ” א Midreshet HaRova Course Catalog 2 0 1 0 - 1 1 Midreshet Harova Fa c u l t y HaRav David Milston Semicha, Rabbanut HaRashit L’Yisrael; ; BA, Jewish HaRav Ari Landa Yeshivat Kibbutz HaDati; Advanced Teaching Certificat, Machon Director, Overseas Program Studies, Jews College; Teachers Certificate, Machon Hertzog Herzog; BSc, MSc, Agriculture, Hebrew University, Jerusalem

HaRav Jonathan Bailey Semicha, HaRav Zalman Nechemia Goldberg and The Joseph Straus HaRav Avigdor Meyerowitz Yeshivat Beit El Rabbinical Seminary; Yeshivat Hamivtar-Orot Lev; Yeshivat Shaarei Mevasseret Zion; BA, English Literature, University HaRav Zvi Ron Semicha, Rabbanut HaRashit L’Yisrael; Yeshivat Shaalvim; Sha’al Rabbinic and Educational Leadership Institute; Doctorate, Jewish Shoshana Beeri Seminary; Teacher’s Certification, Cambridge University, Theology, Spertus University; BA, Counseling Psychology, Empire BEd, David Yellin Institute of Education State College

HaRav David Berg Semicha, Rabbanut HaRashit L’Yisrael; Yeshivat Beit El; Kolel Meretz; HaRav Ari Shames Semicha, Rabbanut HaRashit L’Yisrael; Yeshivat Har Etzion; BA, Teachers Certificate, Lifschitz Institute Psychology, Bar-Ilan University

Tanya Cohen Matan; Midreshet HaRova; MA, Bar-Ilan University; BEd, Tanach and Devorah Starr Bnot Torah Institute; BA, Elementary Education, ; MA Toshba, Michelelet Orot; BA, Psychology and English Literature, Educational Theatre, New York University University of South Africa HaRav Michael Susman Semicha, Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary; Yeshivat Kerem HaRav Uri Cohen Semicha, The Joseph Straus Rabbinical Seminary and Rabbi Isaac B’Yavneh; BA, Political Science, MS, Secondary Education, Yeshiva Elchanan Theological Seminary; Yeshivat Shaalvim; ATID Fellows University Program; Amiel Rabbinic Training Program; BA, Judaic Studies; MS, Medieval Jewish History; MS, Jewish Education, Yeshiva University Yehudit Tamir Midreshet HaRova; Midreshet Ein HaNatziv; BA, Psychology and Machsehvet Yisrael, Bar-Ilan University HaRav Ari Chwat Semicha, Rabbanut HaRashit L’Yisrael; Yeshivat Ohr Etzion; MA equivalent, Herzog Institute HaRav Michael Tobiano Yeshivat ; Orot Yisrael

Yona Fish ; MA (with Distinction), Torah She Beal Peh, Bar Ilan Yakira Wald BEd, Orot Israel College for Women; BA Psychology, UNISA University; BEd, Tanach and Torah She Beal Peh, Michlalah Yerushalayim HaRav Gidon Weitzman Semicha, Rabbanut HaRashit L’Yisrael; Yeshivat Beit El; Teachers Judith Fogel Bruria Scholar, Midreshet Lindenbaum; Master’s Candidate, Jewish Certificate, Michlelet Lifschitz History, Hebrew University; BA, Religion, Education, Columbia University, Barnard College Miriam Wolf MA, Jewish Studies, Touro College, Jerusalem; BA, Psychology, Northeastern Illinois University; Teachers Certificate, Orot Israel HaRav Yossi Greenfield Yeshivat Ohr Etzion; Kollel Halacha; BA, History, Hebrew University College

Rachel Himmelstein Michlalah Yerushalayim; University of Middlesex; Teacher’s Certificate, Special Education, English and Toshba, Michlalah Yerushalayim; BEd, Bible, and Education, Michlelet Herzog

HaRav Jesse Horn Semicha, Rabbi Issac Elchanan Theological Seminary; Yeshivat Har Administration Etzion; BA, Jewish Studies, MA, Jewish Education, Yeshiva University Jeremy Kurnedz Yeshivat Har Etzion; BSc, Economics, University of London HaRav Yonatan Horovitz Semicha, Yeshivat Har Etzion; BA, Jewish Studies, Jews College Executive Director

HaRav Yisrael Krengel Semicha, Rabbanut HaRashit L’Yisrael; BA, Education and Psychology, University of South Africa 34 35 Midreshet HaRova Academic Policy

Courses are year long, unless otherwise noted. For credit purposes titles are split into two, i.e. BIB 110 -111.

Transcripts issued by the Midrasha come in two formats: P/F or with letter grades. The standard transcript is P/F, based upon the evaluation of the teacher. Students wishing to earn letter grades are required to submit written exams or projects.

Credits are based on one classroom hour per week per semester. Semester length = 17 weeks

The grading scale is as follows:

A = 94-100 A- = 90-93 B+ = 87-89 B = 84-86 B- = 80-83 C+ = 77-79 C = 74-76 C- = 70-73 D = 65-70

W = Withdrew from course with permission INC = Incomplete

For courses graded Pass (P) or Fail (F): P is equivalent to C+ and above

Students should note that universities in their home country might only grant transfer credit for graded, as opposed to Pass/Fail courses. In general, the Midrasha can not guarantee that a student will receive transfer credit at universities in Israel or abroad. It is the individual student’s responsibility to check the transfer credit policy of whichever university she plans on attending. Midreshet HaRova is a participant in the Yeshiva University Israel Program and the Hebrew Theological College/Blitstein Teacher’s Institute Israel Experience Program (IEP). IEP students do not fulfill their requirements with a P/F transcript, and must earn letter grades. Students planning on attending Stern College are strongly advised to opt for graded transcripts in order to receive full credit.

36