Prerequisite Knowledge: Students should be comfortable reading brief passages of the Talmud – translations will be made available.
Course Description
The Birkot Hashachar in contemporary Jewish life are generally said very quickly at the start of communal morning prayers ~ but this is not what was envisioned in the Talmud as the way to start our days. This Havrutah will bring us back to the days of the Talmud, to read the words of the Tana’im and Amora’im, and to experience Birkot Hashachar as they were originally conceived.
Earns .5 credits towards smicha
Learning Verification Method
You will use Rabbinic concepts to guide a short conversation with the Rabbi Brody about personal morning prayer.
Note: your educator will need to fill out this form below for you. Please provide it to them if they do not already have it.
What Students Will Learn
You’ll be engaging with Talmudic passages that describe Birkot Hashachar and Tefilat Tzibur (public prayer) and will explore ways to bring these ideas into your own daily practice.
Materials Needed
Texts will be provided by the instructor.
Typical Meeting Times & Availability
Wednesday and Thursday afternoons and early evenings (eastern time zone).
Course Price (USD)
$180 for three 1-hour meetings
Payment Methods Accepted
Venmo, Zelle or check.
Getting Started
Reach out to Rabbi Brody via email: rabbibrody@runbox.com
About Your Instructor
Rabbi Alison Brody studied at The Jewish Theological Seminary and Mesifta Adath Wolkowisk, and has taught Talmud and Midrash in high school and adult education programs. Rabbi Brody works as a community chaplain with people in nursing care facilities and prisons, providing religious advocacy and support.
Smicha, Mesifta Adath Wolkowisk
MSW, Yeshiva University
