Date/Time
Date(s) - 22/10/2024
6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Categories
We are very excited to share with you a new learning opportunity for all members of Progressive communities. The Movement for Reform Judaism and Liberal Judaism are offering all its members the chance to take part in a year-long cycle of chavruta (learning in pairs) study. Participants can sign up as a chavruta pair, or as an individual and we will match them up with a study partner.
Every week, we will provide all participants with some starting points, inspiration for the Torah portion of that week, and give them access to a tailor-made discussion board on which they can share ideas with other members of the chavruta circle. Each chavruta pair will schedule their weekly study as suits them, either in person or online, and at whatever time they choose. Every week one chavruta pair will star in our ‘spotlight’ feature (not compulsory!).
Throughout the year participants will also have the chance to take part in five exclusive online seminars led by inspiring Progressive rabbis and educators. The first seminar, led by Rabbi Elliott Karstadt of Alyth Synagogue, will take place on Tuesday 22 October.
The aim of the programme is to create community around a regular practice of text study.
What is chavruta study?
Chavruta is a method of Jewish study that involves in-depth text study and discussion with a partner. As early as the Talmud, Jewish tradition has valued learning in groups, and particularly in pairs. Today, Jewish people across the world in all denominations meet regularly with partners for Torah study.
“Two are better off than one, in that they derive greater benefit from their efforts. For if they should fall, the one will raise up the other, as opposed to if one falls when there is no one to raise them” (Ecclesiastes 4:10-11)
Here is some more information about the history of chavruta study: https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/havruta-learning-in-pairs/
What will we be studying?
Together, we will make our way through the parashat hashavua, weekly Torah portions. Beginning with our Simchat Torah seminar in October 2024 and rounding off with a celebration just before Simchat Torah in October 2025. Through the course of the year, we will make our way through the whole of the Torah, portion by portion.
How will the study work?
You and your partner will be responsible for scheduling your own sessions at a time that suits both of your schedules. We recommend that you have a read of the portion beforehand so that you arrive familiar with what’s in it. How exactly you want to structure your sessions will be up to you. In the opening seminar, there will be a workshop on how to make the most out of chavruta learning, but ultimately, it will be up to the two of you to figure out what works best for you.
How do I find a chavruta (partner)?
There are two options when joining the Chavruta Circle:
- You can sign up with a chavruta you already want to study with.
- You can indicate on the sign-up form that you would like to be paired up with someone. There will be a few questions to answer so we have an idea of who would be a good match for you.
Will there be a place to share thoughts and discuss ideas?
Yes! We will have a virtual Beit Midrash page on Padlet, where members of the circle are welcome and encouraged to contribute thoughts and ideas, and comment on other’s posts as well. We will introduce the page in the opening seminar and show you how to use it.
What will the seminars be like?
The seminars will be a blend of learning, discussion, and community-building. We’ll kick off with an opening seminar that sets the stage for our year-long journey, offering guidance on how to approach chavruta study, an overview of the upcoming year’s schedule, and some time to meet and connect with others in the group. Throughout the year, there will be a few additional seminars focusing on specific moments in the Hebrew calendar, providing deeper insights and opportunities for group reflection. Each seminar will be interactive, with plenty of opportunities for discussion, questions, and sharing of experiences. Whether you’re new to chavruta study or have been doing it for years, the seminars are designed to enrich your learning and strengthen the sense of community within our group.
Can I still join if I can’t make the weekly commitment?
Absolutely! While a weekly study rhythm is encouraged to help maintain continuity and connection with the material, we understand that everyone’s schedule is different. If you’re unable to commit to weekly sessions, you’re still very welcome to join and participate at a pace that works for you. You might decide to meet with your chavruta every other week, or even once a month, depending on your availability. The important thing is that you engage with the study in a way that is meaningful and sustainable for you. Remember, the virtual Beit Midrash is always there for you to catch up on discussions and share your thoughts, so you can stay connected with the group even if your schedule is more flexible.
