Thursday Evening Discussions of

Rabbi Jonathan Sacks’ Book
 
Not in God’s Name:
Confronting Religious Violence

Facilitated by Arnie Zar-Kessler 

Is religion itself the real problem in religious violence?

And wouldn’t we solve the problem by just having less religion?

If religion is perceived as being the problem - or even part of the problem – of religious violence, then it must also form part of the solution, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks argues in his new book, Not in God's Name. 

In this class series we will use the book to explore the roots of violence, and the relationship of violence to religion. In particular, we will consider Rabbi Sacks’ claim that religiously inspired violence has as its source misreading of biblical texts at the heart of all three Abrahamic faiths.

We will employ close reading of Sacks' text, attempt to listen carefully to each other, and maybe even leave with a morsel of hope for the future, and the work before us.

Schedule

Thursday evenings

 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM:

 May 12:  Digging into key ideas

May 19: Isaac & Ishmael; Jacob

May 26: Joseph; Leah & Rachel

June 2:  Moving  forward

Format
Attend all or any of the classes – each stands alone.  The more you attend, the more you will learn.

 Materials will be available at each class.  Reading the book ahead of class is not required, but will enrich your understanding. 

 You may order the book through the Beth El office, or obtain it through local libraries and book stores.

For more information call the Beth El office: 978-443-9622

Congregation

Beth El

Sudbury, MA