Mahloket Matters: How to Disagree Constructively —
The Beit Midrash Way; a five-week course taught by

Emily Simon at Temple Emek Shalom in Ashland Oregon

Classes are on Sunday afternoons from 3:30-5:00 starting
October 23 and concluding November 20

Most people concur that civil discourse has deteriorated to an extent that endangers democratic government. We are unable to listen to one another, let alone understand each other. We have progressively tuned in to the exclusive echoes of our own silos.

Is it yet possible to find the courage to productively engage those with whom we disagree? Can text study of Biblical stories and their diverse interpretations empower us to engage more constructively in disagreements today?

Come join Emily Simon in an exploration of ways to express and appreciate differences of opinion for the sake of heaven. We will engage constructively across differences, by examining our traditional and contemporary texts in the format of the traditional beit midrash (study hall). By learning how to disagree respectfully over Jewish texts, we can use this model to shine a light on problems that we face in our society today, and to facilitate civil discourse.

By popular demand, this class is now being offered as a hybrid class, in-person and on Zoom. So, for those of you who are out of town, or who can’t make it LIVE to the class, you can attend any or all the classes via Zoom at the regular TES Zoom link. In addition to many people asking that it be available on Zoom, the other reason for the change is because Dr. Pollin’s group from Portland will no longer be joining us, and we want to make sure that there is a robust enough group for Havurata study.

After an introduction to the Rabbinic Concepts of the Beit Midrash Way, the curriculum
will include:
– Meet or Refuse to Meet? From Korach and Moses to Political Adversaries Today
– Fear War or Trust Peace? From Jacob and Esau through Chamberlain and Menachem Begin to Today
– Xenophobia or National Security? From Pharaoh and the Israelites through Japanese Internment to Today
– “Fake News” or Uncovering the Truth? From Joseph and his brothers through Jefferson and Hamilton to Today

Ms. Simon is a graduate of the Pardes Institute’s Mahloket Matters program. The class is free for members of Temple Emek Shalom and $36 for non-members. Registration is required. To register please email Zyaire Hogwood at office@emekshalom.org or call (541) 488-2909.