NES 2644

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  • Schedule of Classes - April 4, 2023 12:09PM EDT
  • Course Catalog - April 3, 2023 12:59PM EDT

NES 2644
Introduction to Judaism

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2022-2023.

This course is an introduction to Jewish identities, values, and practices from the ancient to modern era. Organized thematically, it examines Judaism as a religious phenomenon, with a particular emphasis on its cultural and textual diversity across three millennia. Themes covered include creation, Sabbath, prayer, Jerusalem, pious customs, magic, reincarnation, revelation, among others. Throughout the semester students perform close readings of a wide selection of Jewish texts from the Bible, Talmud, kabbalah (mysticism), philosophy, liturgy, and modern Jewish thought. In what ways are these various traditions of Judaism interrelated and/or in tension with one another? In the face of the Jewish history's tremendous diversity, what is it that has unified Judaism and the Jewish people over the centuries? By exploring these types of questions, this course examines the appropriateness of defining Judaism as a religion, an ethnicity, a civilization, and/or a culture. Readings include introductory-level textbooks and essays, as well as a range of primary source materials in translation.

When Offered Spring, Summer.

Breadth Requirement (GHB)
Distribution Category (ALC-AS, HA-AS, HST-AS)
Course Attribute (CU-ITL)

View Enrollment Information

Syllabi: none

  •   Regular Academic Session.  Combined with: JWST 2644, RELST 2644

  • 3 Credits Stdnt Opt

  •  6053 NES 2644   LEC 001

  •  
    • MW White Hall 110
    • Jan 23 - May 9, 2023

    • Monroe, L

  • Instruction Mode: In Person
    This course is an introduction to Jewish identities, values, and practices from the ancient to modern era. Organized thematically, it examines Judaism as a religious phenomenon, with a particular emphasis on its cultural and textual diversity across three millennia. Themes covered include creation, Sabbath, prayer, Jerusalem, pious customs, magic, reincarnation, revelation, among others. Throughout the semester students perform close readings of a wide selection of Jewish texts from the Bible, Talmud, kabbalah (mysticism), philosophy, liturgy, and modern Jewish thought. In what ways are these various traditions of Judaism interrelated and/or in tension with one another? In the face of the Jewish history's tremendous diversity, what is it that has unified Judaism and the Jewish people over the centuries? By exploring these types of questions, this course examines the appropriateness of defining Judaism as a religion, an ethnicity, a civilization, and/or a culture. Readings include introductory-level textbooks and essays, as well as a range of primary source materials in translation.