Tuesdays with Torah: Jewish Vows in Jewish Texts

Wise Center Board Room 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Join Matthew Check, our new Director of Lifelong Learning, for an exploration of "making a vow" in Jewish Literature. The first week, we'll look at the story of Jonah and it's relationship to Yom Kippur. The second week, we'll look at the Nazarite Laws in the Book of Numbers and consider their collective religious and cultural [...]

Downtown Lunch and Learn

KMK Law One East Fourth St, 14th Floor (4th & Vine), Cincinnati

The Revival of the Hebrew Language in Pre-State Israel Matt Check, Director of Lifelong Learning Don’t miss this session on the fascinating history of the modern Hebrew language. Eliezer Ben Yehuda not only revived the ancient language, but did so in a way that included his entire nuclear family - for better and for worse. [...]

Antisemitism & the Fight for Democracy: A Conversation with Amy Spitalnick

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Amy Spitalnick will join us IN PERSON from Wise Center for a moderated conversation about her past, present, and future work, including the successful Charlottesville lawsuit, the new lawsuit against Patriot Front, and her goals for the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA), where she currently serves as CEO. Join us at Wise Center or [...]

Yom Kippur Study Session

Plum Street Temple 720 Plum St, Cincinnati, OH, United States

Join Rabbinic Fellow, Aaron Torop for an informal study session on a topic of the season.

★ Wise Hybrid Learning: Social Issues of Israeli Society

Plum Street Temple, Wise Center, Zoom

Orly Erez-Likhovski, Executive Director, Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC) Zoom from Wise Center, Plum Street Temple or home On Yom Kippur Day between our Morning and Afternoon Services, Orly Erez-Likhovski, Executive Director of the Reform movement’s Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC), will engage in conversation from Jerusalem with Rabbi Kamrass and all in attendance, sharing [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: A Jewish View of the Death Penalty

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Life and Death—It’s in the Courts, the Legislatures and the Talmud: A Jewish View of the Death Penalty Rabbi Lewis Kamrass Rabbi Kamrass will guide us through the complexities of capital punishment, including the clear statements in the Bible, examples like the Rabbinic/Talmudic major shift away from capital punishment, the use of the death penalty [...]

Talmud and Rabbinic Judaism Class

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Our first several sessions of Talmud and Rabbinic Judaism Class this year will explore the popular New York Times series known as “The Ethicist,” applying Rabbinic values and sources to discern a Jewish response to the ethical dilemmas posed in this column. Join us as Rabbi Kamrass leads us through the sources from Talmud and [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: A Jewish View of the Death Penalty

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Life and Death—It’s in the Courts, the Legislatures and the Talmud: A Jewish View of the Death Penalty Rabbi Lewis Kamrass Rabbi Kamrass will guide us through the complexities of capital punishment, including the clear statements in the Bible, examples like the Rabbinic/Talmudic major shift away from capital punishment, the use of the death penalty [...]

A Visit to War-Torn Ukraine: A Conversation with Cincinnati City Councilman, Mark Jeffreys

Wise Center, Amberley

In late September, Cincinnati City Councilman and Wise Temple Member Mark Jeffreys had the opportunity to visit Ukraine to represent the City of Cincinnati in the signing of an updated Memorandum of Understanding between Cincinnati and its Sister City, Kharkiv, as well as attend a “Rebuild Kharkiv” conference hosted in Kyiv.  As a part of [...]

Downtown Lunch and Learn

KMK Law One East Fourth St, 14th Floor (4th & Vine), Cincinnati

Life and Death—It’s in the Courts, the Legislatures and the Talmud: A Jewish View of Abortion and Reproductive Rights Rabbi Lewis Kamrass With the many legal challenges being considered across the United States on the subject, and the upcoming ballot initiative in Ohio, the timing is especially compelling for a long-planned session with Rabbi Lewis [...]

Dream By Dream: A conversation with Geri Kolesar on the launch of her new children’s book on the life of Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise.

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Dream By Dream: The Story of Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise is a newly published children’s book by Wise Temple member and author, Geri Kolesar. Join us as we launch the book through a conversation about the research and writing process, the content of the story, writing specifically for children, and how this book may be [...]

Roots of the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict

Wise Center & Zoom

With the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas, join Matt Check, Director of Lifelong Learning, for a discussion on the history of the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. Matt will talk about the larger historical context of the war that is happening now, and he will touch upon his time living in Israel, working [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: A Jewish View of the Death Penalty

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Life and Death—It’s in the Courts, the Legislatures and the Talmud: A Jewish View of the Death Penalty Rabbi Lewis Kamrass Rabbi Kamrass will guide us through the complexities of capital punishment, including the clear statements in the Bible, examples like the Rabbinic/Talmudic major shift away from capital punishment, the use of the death penalty [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: Faith in Crisis

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Faith in Crisis Rabbi Zachary Goodman Drawing from the new curriculum produced by the Sholom Hartman Institute of Jerusalem, we will explore the themes of faith and faithlessness in times of crisis. Tap into Jewish wisdom--ancient and contemporary--and discover that our spiritual struggles and aspirations put us in very good company! This course is accessible [...]

Roots of the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict

Wise Center & Zoom

With the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas, join Matt Check, Director of Lifelong Learning, for a discussion on the history of the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. Matt will talk about the larger historical context of the war that is happening now, and he will touch upon his time living in Israel, working [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: Faith in Crisis

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Faith in Crisis Rabbi Zachary Goodman Drawing from the new curriculum produced by the Sholom Hartman Institute of Jerusalem, we will explore the themes of faith and faithlessness in times of crisis. Tap into Jewish wisdom--ancient and contemporary--and discover that our spiritual struggles and aspirations put us in very good company! This course is accessible [...]

Talmud and Rabbinic Judaism Class

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Our first several sessions of Talmud and Rabbinic Judaism Class this year will explore the popular New York Times series known as “The Ethicist,” applying Rabbinic values and sources to discern a Jewish response to the ethical dilemmas posed in this column. Join us as Rabbi Kamrass leads us through the sources from Talmud and [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: Faith in Crisis

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Faith in Crisis Rabbi Zachary Goodman Drawing from the new curriculum produced by the Sholom Hartman Institute of Jerusalem, we will explore the themes of faith and faithlessness in times of crisis. Tap into Jewish wisdom--ancient and contemporary--and discover that our spiritual struggles and aspirations put us in very good company! This course is accessible [...]

A Conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Petuchowski – Where From and Where To: One of the Last Self-Told German Jewish Life Stories

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Dr. Elizabeth Petuchowski shares her story of growing up as a young Jewish girl in Germany amidst the rise of Nazism, fleeing to England where she experienced the outbreak of WWII, and immigrating to the United States. Dr. Petuchowski will also read from her memoir, Where From and Where To: One of the Last Self-Told [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: Faith in Crisis

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Faith in Crisis Rabbi Zachary Goodman Drawing from the new curriculum produced by the Sholom Hartman Institute of Jerusalem, we will explore the themes of faith and faithlessness in times of crisis. Tap into Jewish wisdom--ancient and contemporary--and discover that our spiritual struggles and aspirations put us in very good company! This course is accessible [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: Gender Identity in Jewish Life

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Gender Identity in Jewish Life Aaron Torop, Rabbinic Fellow Did you know there are at least six types of gender in the Talmud? Learn about gender identity and how it shows up in Jewish life. This space is equally for those who are working to understand different facets of gender identity alongside those who feel [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: Gender Identity in Jewish Life 

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Gender Identity in Jewish Life Aaron Torop, Rabbinic Fellow Did you know there are at least six types of gender in the Talmud? Learn about gender identity and how it shows up in Jewish life. This space is equally for those who are working to understand different facets of gender identity alongside those who feel [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: Gender Identity in Jewish Life

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Gender Identity in Jewish Life Aaron Torop, Rabbinic Fellow Did you know there are at least six types of gender in the Talmud? Learn about gender identity and how it shows up in Jewish life. This space is equally for those who are working to understand different facets of gender identity alongside those who feel [...]

Talmud and Rabbinic Judaism Class

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

TOPIC: Rabbinic and Talmudic texts on the laws of warfare and just wars. Don’t be intimidated by the title: no prior knowledge is required for this course, but do bring your curiosity, questions, and a desire to learn deeply. As we study these real-life ethical dilemmas, you will come to see that the ancient rabbis radically [...]

Downtown Lunch and Learn

KMK Law One East Fourth St, 14th Floor (4th & Vine), Cincinnati

The Jewish “AND” Rabbi Zachary Goodman Explore the remarkable capacity of Judaism to embrace and reconcile conflicting truths. Through examination of texts, theological ideas and historical perspectives, we investigate the concept of “paradox” in Jewish thought and how we might hope to navigate it. By examining this rich tradition, we will gain a deeper appreciation [...]

POSTPONED: Jewish Parenting Seminar: Becoming a Soulful Parent

Wise Center & Zoom

Combining insights from thousands of years of traditional Jewish wisdom and contemporary literature on spirituality with her own utterly relatable first-person storytelling, author Dasee Berkowitz helps readers embrace every moment with their families while leaning into the challenges of parenting with renewed perspective and enthusiasm. This is not a parenting how-to book. Instead, Becoming a [...]

Tuesdays With Torah: Israeli Pop Culture Since October 7th

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Israeli Pop Culture Since October 7th Matt Check, Director of Lifelong Learning January 9, 16 The observation of Israel’s “Jewishness” has always been a topic of intrigue for the community of the diaspora. How has this identity been collectively expressed since the events of October 7th and everything that has followed? Join Matt Check as [...]

Talmud and Rabbinic Judaism Class

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

No prior knowledge is required for this course, but do bring your curiosity, questions and a desire to learn deeply. The ancient rabbis radically reshaped biblical Judaism to respond to new needs and to changing times. Their work through the centuries sets the foundation for the Judaism we currently practice. Learn about the Talmud, Midrash [...]

Tuesdays With Torah: Israeli Pop Culture Since October 7th

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Israeli Pop Culture Since October 7th Matt Check, Director of Lifelong Learning January 9, 16 The observation of Israel’s “Jewishness” has always been a topic of intrigue for the community of the diaspora. How has this identity been collectively expressed since the events of October 7th and everything that has followed? Join Matt Check as [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: Embracing Reform: A Comparison of Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Jewish Movements

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Embracing Reform: A Comparison of Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Jewish Movements Jamie Starr, Rabbinic Fellow January 23, 30 From liturgical comparisons to discussions on contemporary issues, join us as we bridge understanding across the spectrum of Judaism. We will discuss what makes Reform Judaism distinctive, and how this may impact our individual sense of Jewish [...]

Downtown Lunch and Learn

KMK Law One East Fourth St, 14th Floor (4th & Vine), Cincinnati

Four Worlds in One: Tu B’shvat Aaron Torop, Rabbinic Fellow Today we celebrate Tu B’shvat, a holiday focused on our connection to the natural world. Join us to talk about our role in nature and a mystical view of our planet. We will learn about how kabbalah, Jewish mysticism, engages with food, creation, and the [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: Embracing Reform: A Comparison of Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Jewish Movements

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Embracing Reform: A Comparison of Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform Jewish Movements Jamie Starr, Rabbinic Fellow From liturgical comparisons to discussions on contemporary issues, join us as we bridge understanding across the spectrum of Judaism. We will discuss what makes Reform Judaism distinctive, and how this may impact our individual sense of Jewish identity and pride.

Tuesdays with Torah: Great Jewish Debates: The Controversies of Our People

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Great Jewish Debates: The Controversies of Our People Rabbi Zachary Goodman February 6, 13, 20 Since the inception of Jewish history (from Abraham and God to Theodor Herzl and Rabbi Isaac M. Wise), Jews have engaged in the art of deliberation, examination, and disagreement. Looking through the lenses of the Biblical Era, Rabbinic Era, and [...]

Wise Hybrid Learning

Wise Center & Zoom

Jewish Comic Book Characters Dr. Jennifer Caplan, Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati Chair in Judaic Studies, University of Cincinnati Jennifer Caplan highlights the curious history of some of Marvel and DC Comics’ most notable Jewish characters. We will discuss the histories of Magneto, The Thing, Ragman, and Kitty Pride with a particular focus on the way [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: Great Jewish Debates: The Controversies of Our People

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Great Jewish Debates: The Controversies of Our People Rabbi Zachary Goodman February 6, 13, 20 Since the inception of Jewish history (from Abraham and God to Theodor Herzl and Rabbi Isaac M. Wise), Jews have engaged in the art of deliberation, examination, and disagreement. Looking through the lenses of the Biblical Era, Rabbinic Era, and [...]

Talmud and Rabbinic Judaism Class

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

No prior knowledge is required for this course, but do bring your curiosity, questions and a desire to learn deeply. The ancient rabbis radically reshaped biblical Judaism to respond to new needs and to changing times. Their work through the centuries sets the foundation for the Judaism we currently practice. Learn about the Talmud, Midrash [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: Great Jewish Debates: The Controversies of Our People

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Great Jewish Debates: The Controversies of Our People Rabbi Zachary Goodman February 6, 13, 20 Since the inception of Jewish history (from Abraham and God to Theodor Herzl and Rabbi Isaac M. Wise), Jews have engaged in the art of deliberation, examination, and disagreement. Looking through the lenses of the Biblical Era, Rabbinic Era, and [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: The Poetry of Rachel

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

The Poetry of Rachel Matt Check, Director of Lifelong Learning February 27 Join Matt Check for a reading and discussion of the poetry of Rachel Bluwstein, one of the most famous artists of pre-state Israel, who was a resident of Degania, Israel’s first kibbutz. With her work in mind, Matt addresses the question, “Has the [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: A Jewish Perspective on Jesus

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Who was the historical Jesus of Nazareth? This class will closely examine his life story within the context of the time and place in which he lived. What was daily life like? How would Jesus have practiced Judaism? What was the political climate? And how did a man who lived and died as a Jew [...]

Talmud and Rabbinic Judaism Class

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

No prior knowledge is required for this course, but do bring your curiosity, questions and a desire to learn deeply. The ancient rabbis radically reshaped biblical Judaism to respond to new needs and to changing times. Their work through the centuries sets the foundation for the Judaism we currently practice. Learn about the Talmud, Midrash [...]

Wise Hybrid Learning: Jewish Parenting Seminar

Wise Center & Zoom

How to Have Hard Conversations with Your Kids: A Soulful Parent’s Guide Dasee Berkowitz War, a hostage crisis, and antisemitism are not child’s play. Many parents are struggling with how to talk to their children about current events. Join Dasee Berkowitz, author of Becoming a Soulful Parent: A path to the wisdom within (Kasva Press: [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: A Jewish Perspective on Jesus

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Who was the historical Jesus of Nazareth? This class will closely examine his life story within the context of the time and place in which he lived. What was daily life like? How would Jesus have practiced Judaism? What was the political climate? And how did a man who lived and died as a Jew [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: A Jewish Perspective on Jesus

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Who was the historical Jesus of Nazareth? This class will closely examine his life story within the context of the time and place in which he lived. What was daily life like? How would Jesus have practiced Judaism? What was the political climate? And how did a man who lived and died as a Jew [...]

Downtown Lunch and Learn

KMK Law One East Fourth St, 14th Floor (4th & Vine), Cincinnati

Finders Keepers: A Jewish Take on the Lost Object Rabbi Jonathan Hecht You find a $20 bill on a lunch table downtown. Can you keep it? You are walking down the beach and a pocketbook washes up on shore. What does Jewish law say? Learn about the rabbinic conception of the “Lost Object.” During this [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: A Jewish Perspective on Jesus

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Who was the historical Jesus of Nazareth? This class will closely examine his life story within the context of the time and place in which he lived. What was daily life like? How would Jesus have practiced Judaism? What was the political climate? And how did a man who lived and died as a Jew [...]

A One-Woman Performance: The Life and Loves of Selma Bondi Wise

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

We know Reverend Dr. Isaac Mayer Wise as the man who pioneered American Reform Judaism, but what about the power behind the proverbial throne? Learn about the two women who motivated and inspired him. His second wife, Selma Bondi Wise (as performed by rabbinical student Rachael Houser) weaves the tale of his adventuresome partnership with [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: How We Read (and Misread) the Bible

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Most readers of the Bible tend to take it literally, in part because they want to take it seriously. Yet its words and lessons can seem conflicting, its theology confounding and its context too complex. But to read the Bible literally is to diminish its significance, for it was written by those who took life [...]

Hornstein Lecture: Rebuilding Jewish life in Krakow after the Holocaust

Union Terminal 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati

Join us for the annual Stephen and Lusia Hornstein Lecture on the Holocaust and the Human Spirit at historic Union Terminal. This year’s featured speaker is Jonathan Ornstein, CEO of the Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Krakow. Ornstein will be speaking about his efforts to rebuild Jewish life in Poland, where he has served as [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: How We Read (and Misread) the Bible

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Most readers of the Bible tend to take it literally, in part because they want to take it seriously. Yet its words and lessons can seem conflicting, its theology confounding and its context too complex. But to read the Bible literally is to diminish its significance, for it was written by those who took life [...]

Talmud and Rabbinic Judaism Class

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

No prior knowledge is required for this course, but do bring your curiosity, questions and a desire to learn deeply. The ancient rabbis radically reshaped biblical Judaism to respond to new needs and to changing times. Their work through the centuries sets the foundation for the Judaism we currently practice. Learn about the Talmud, Midrash [...]

Wise Hybrid Learning

Wise Center & Zoom

Join us for a conversation about the state of Reform Judaism in Israel with Rabbi Ayala Samuels, the current chair of Maram: Council of Reform Rabbis in Israel. She will discuss with Rabbi Kamrass how the events of October 7th, 2023 and the war have affected rabbis of the movement as well as Reform congregational [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: How We Read (and Misread) the Bible

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Most readers of the Bible tend to take it literally, in part because they want to take it seriously. Yet its words and lessons can seem conflicting, its theology confounding and its context too complex. But to read the Bible literally is to diminish its significance, for it was written by those who took life [...]

Tuesdays With Torah: The Israeli Days of Awe: Yom HaShoah to Yom HaAtzmaut

Wise Center, Amberley

One could argue that Israel’s most important week every year is the 7 days that include Yom HaShoah, Yom HaZikaron and end with Yom HaAtzmaut. On each of these holidays we commemorate important moments within the greater narrative of the Jewish people, while also learning about what it means to be Israeli. Join Matt Check [...]

Downtown Lunch and Learn

KMK Law One East Fourth St, 14th Floor (4th & Vine), Cincinnati

Who Wrote the Torah? Jamie Starr, Rabbinic Fellow From God to Moses to multiple writers and editors over time, there are abundant theories about the authorship of our central text, the Torah. Investigate some of these theories and discuss how the Torah can still be sacred and relevant to our lives today.

Tuesdays with Torah: Lost Artifacts: Beyond Indiana Jones

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Items from the ancient Temple in Jerusalem, such as the Ark of the Covenant and the Menorah, continue to animate Jewish thought long after their disappearance. Together we will explore what may (or may not) have happened to these items and discuss the symbolic significance of objects even after we no longer have them. Learn [...]

Talmud and Rabbinic Judaism Class

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

No prior knowledge is required for this course, but do bring your curiosity, questions and a desire to learn deeply. The ancient rabbis radically reshaped biblical Judaism to respond to new needs and to changing times. Their work through the centuries sets the foundation for the Judaism we currently practice. Learn about the Talmud, Midrash [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: The Spotify Playlist of Israeli Politics & History

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Israel has an amazing and unique musical tradition for its short 75 years of existence. Dive into some classics of the Israeli songbook in which the themes of the country’s history, politics and culture are expressed in fascinating ways that are particularly Israeli and Jewish.

“The Sabbath of the Soul” A Workshop for Men at Wise about What Really Matters

Wise Center, Amberley

Wise Temple Brotherhood and Wise Aging invite all men at Wise to participate in a morning of thought and reflection around maintaining a meaningful existence in the second half of life. Whether you are working, retired, or somewhere in-between, come discover rich possibilities and lessons based on Jewish texts and other traditions. We will focus on [...]

Tuesdays with Torah: The Spotify Playlist of Israeli Politics & History

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Israel has an amazing and unique musical tradition for its short 75 years of existence. Dive into some classics of the Israeli songbook in which the themes of the country’s history, politics and culture are expressed in fascinating ways that are particularly Israeli and Jewish.

Tuesdays with Torah: The Spotify Playlist of Israeli Politics & History

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Israel has an amazing and unique musical tradition for its short 75 years of existence. Dive into some classics of the Israeli songbook in which the themes of the country’s history, politics and culture are expressed in fascinating ways that are particularly Israeli and Jewish.

Tuesdays with Torah | Crossing the Sea in Solidarity: Women of the Exodus Story

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Courtney Anthony, Director of Education Women from a variety of backgrounds play pivotal roles in the story of the Exodus. Their courage, strength, and support of the community move the story forward and even make room for miracles to happen. Together, we will explore the roles of key female figures in the Exodus story, including [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | Crossing the Sea in Solidarity: Women of the Exodus Story

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Courtney Anthony, Director of Education Women from a variety of backgrounds play pivotal roles in the story of the Exodus. Their courage, strength, and support of the community move the story forward and even make room for miracles to happen. Together, we will explore the roles of key female figures in the Exodus story, including [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | Understanding the Complexity of Israel Today

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Rabbi Lewis Kamrass, Senior Rabbi Join Rabbi Kamrass in this two-session series as we follow the steps that led to the complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian claims today, including: How did we get here? What are the modern history and the ancient claims? What about refugees and displaced populations? We will unpack all the layers to [...]

The Forgotten Exodus

Zoom Program

Dr. Saba Soomekh, AJC Director of Training and Education Join American Jewish Committee Cincinnati for an evening of meaningful conversation and learn how to counter anti-Israel bias by leveraging diverse Jewish historical narratives. Dr. Soomekh is a first-generation Iranian Jew whose family is part of the Forgotten Exodus. She shares her family’s story which dispels [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | Understanding the Complexity of Israel Today

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Rabbi Lewis Kamrass, Senior Rabbi Join Rabbi Kamrass in this two-session series as we follow the steps that led to the complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian claims today, including: How did we get here? What are the modern history and the ancient claims? What about refugees and displaced populations? We will unpack all the layers to [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | The Early Music of Arik Einstein (The Israeli Frank Sinatra)

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Matt Check, Director of Lifelong Learning Join us for a listening session of some of the early recordings of Arik Einstein (the Israeli Frank Sinatra). In the late 70s he released albums about the land of Israel. These classics of the Israeli songbook put melodies to the words of iconic Israeli poetry. We will listen [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | The Early Music of Arik Einstein (The Israeli Frank Sinatra)

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Matt Check, Director of Lifelong Learning Join us for a listening session of some of the early recordings of Arik Einstein (the Israeli Frank Sinatra). In the late 70s he released albums about the land of Israel. These classics of the Israeli songbook put melodies to the words of iconic Israeli poetry. We will listen [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | Let’s Begin

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Rabbi Neil P.G. Hirsch, Senior Rabbi Successor “In the beginning,” reads the opening words of Genesis. "Let's start at the very beginning / A very good place to start,” sings Maria to the Von Trapp children. While Jewish tradition teaches that there is no true beginning or end in Torah study, we have to choose [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | Let’s Begin

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Rabbi Neil P.G. Hirsch, Senior Rabbi Successor “In the beginning,” reads the opening words of Genesis. "Let's start at the very beginning / A very good place to start,” sings Maria to the Von Trapp children. While Jewish tradition teaches that there is no true beginning or end in Torah study, we have to choose [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | Voices of Jewish Wisdom: Exploring Spirituality, Ethics, and Social Justice through the Teachings of Renowned Jewish Philosophers

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Jamie Starr, Rabbinic Fellow Who or what is God? What is the purpose of prayer? What does it mean to live an ethical Jewish life? Join us as we wrestle with some of the biggest philosophical and theological questions Judaism has to offer. We will read excerpts from modern and contemporary Jewish thinkers like Martin [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | Voices of Jewish Wisdom: Exploring Spirituality, Ethics, and Social Justice through the Teachings of Renowned Jewish Philosophers

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Jamie Starr, Rabbinic Fellow Who or what is God? What is the purpose of prayer? What does it mean to live an ethical Jewish life? Join us as we wrestle with some of the biggest philosophical and theological questions Judaism has to offer. We will read excerpts from modern and contemporary Jewish thinkers like Martin [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | Abraham Lincoln: A Jewish President? | Rabbi Goodman

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Rabbi Zachary Goodman, Associate Rabbi This two-part class explores the unique dynamics between Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, and the American Jewish community during a pivotal era in American history. Uncover the lesser-known aspects of Abraham Lincoln's presidency and his profound impact on the American Jewish community during the Civil War. [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | Abraham Lincoln: A Jewish President? | Rabbi Goodman

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Rabbi Zachary Goodman, Associate Rabbi This two-part class explores the unique dynamics between Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, and the American Jewish community during a pivotal era in American history. Uncover the lesser-known aspects of Abraham Lincoln's presidency and his profound impact on the American Jewish community during the Civil War. [...]

Downtown Lunch and Learn | Reading Jonah Backward | Rabbi Hirsch

KMK Law One East Fourth St, 14th Floor (4th & Vine), Cincinnati

Tradition has it that we read the Book of Jonah on Yom Kippur afternoon because its message strengthens the worshiper's sense of repentance, helping everyone toward the finish line after a very long day. The trouble is, the Book of Jonah’s lesson can be enigmatic. As we prepare for the High Holy Days , join [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | Mussar: A Spiritual Discipline | Rabbi Burke

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Rabbi Anna Meyers Burke, Director of Member Engagement & Young Family Involvement In the weeks preceding the High Holy Days, we engage in profound introspection, reflecting upon the events of the past year to acknowledge personal successes and areas for growth in anticipation of the year ahead. Throughout this two-week course, participants will delve into [...]

AJC Cincinnati Lunch & Learn with Agnieszka Markiewicz, Director of AJC Central Europe

Wise Center, Amberley

Wise Temple partners with AJC Cincinnati as they welcome Agnieszka Markiewicz, Director of AJC Central Europe to Cincinnati. The program will provide an overview of the current dynamics in the AJC Central Europe region—including Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia—focusing on the impact of the war in Ukraine, relations with and perceptions of [...]

Guest Speaker Series | Israeli Poetry Since October 7th | Rachel Korazim

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Wise Temple is grateful to host Israel educator extraordinaire, Rachel Korazim, who will discuss how Israeli society has responded with poetry since the events of last October. Literature has always been an important part of Israeli identity and culture especially in its responses to the ongoing conflict it has faced since its creation. Join us [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | Mussar: A Spiritual Discipline | Rabbi Burke

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Rabbi Anna Meyers Burke, Director of Member Engagement & Young Family Involvement In the weeks preceding the High Holy Days, we engage in profound introspection, reflecting upon the events of the past year to acknowledge personal successes and areas for growth in anticipation of the year ahead. Throughout this two-week course, participants will delve into [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | Repentance, Apologies, and Forgiveness | Rabbi Hirsch

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Rabbi Hirsch, Senior Rabbi Successor During the High Holy Days we focus our prayers and energy on t’shuvah, the process of repentance, enabling us to enter into a new year for goodness and blessing. Many use this time to repair relationships that have been fractured. Given its centrality to Yom Kippur, t’shuvah though is often [...]

Judaism 101 | The Days of Awe (Session #1) | Matt Check

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Explore the significance, traditions, and unique practices of the High Holy Days – Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Learn how these solemn and reflective days shape Jewish life, spirituality, and our personal journeys of repentance and renewal. Please register by October 4.

Tuesdays with Torah | Repentance, Apologies, and Forgiveness | Rabbi Hirsch

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Rabbi Hirsch, Senior Rabbi Successor During the High Holy Days we focus our prayers and energy on t’shuvah, the process of repentance, enabling us to enter into a new year for goodness and blessing. Many use this time to repair relationships that have been fractured. Given its centrality to Yom Kippur, t’shuvah though is often [...]

Yom Kippur Study Session

Plum Street Temple 720 Plum St, Cincinnati, OH, United States

Join Rabbi Burke for an informal study session on a topic of the season. Questions? Contact Rabbi Anna Burke, Director of YoFI, at 513.538.0392 or aburke@wisetemple.org.

Wise Learning Guest Speaker Series | Israel, Gaza and Beyond: Crisis and Opportunity | Dr. Brigadier General (Res.) Jonatan (Yoni) Shimshoni

Plum Street Temple, Wise Center, Zoom

Zoom from Wise Center, Plum Street Temple or home Dr. Brigadier General (Res.) Jonatan (Yoni) Shimshoni will present an update on the current situation regarding Israel, the war, and other topical issues. He will then open the session for questions and discussion. Dr. Shimshoni served for 25 years in the IDF in field command and [...]

Judaism 101 | The Three Festivals (Session #2) | Rabbi Kamrass

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Explore the significance, traditions, and unique practices of the three major pilgrimage festivals – Sukkot, Passover, and Shavuot. Learn how these festivals have shaped Jewish life and its calendar through the ages.

Tuesdays with Torah | Repentance, Apologies, and Forgiveness | Rabbi Hirsch

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Rabbi Hirsch, Senior Rabbi Successor During the High Holy Days we focus our prayers and energy on t’shuvah, the process of repentance, enabling us to enter into a new year for goodness and blessing. Many use this time to repair relationships that have been fractured. Given its centrality to Yom Kippur, t’shuvah though is often [...]

Guest Speaker | Should We Vote As Jewish Americans or American Jews? | Dr. Zola

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Like all Americans, Jews prioritize various issues when they approach the ballot box. However, when Jewish cultural, religious, or political concerns come to the forefront, the perennial charge of Jewish “dual loyalty” becomes particularly prominent. Dr. Gary P. Zola, Executive Director Emeritus of the American Jewish Archives, will explain how these questions affected our predecessors [...]

Tuesdays with Torah Sacred Dimensions: What Is “Holiness”? | Rabbi Goodman

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

The Jewish tradition is teeming with holy places, holy days, holy items, and even holy people… But what does it truly mean for something to be deemed “holy” within Jewish life? This course invites us to explore the spiritual significance of both time and space within Judaism, uncovering the holiness inherent in both. From the [...]

Judaism 101 | Shabbat & Other Holidays (Session #3) | Rabbi Kamrass

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Discover the legacy and rituals of Shabbat along with other important Jewish holidays (chagim). Gain a deeper understanding of how these sacred times can enhance our spiritual lives and strengthen our community bonds.

Tuesdays with Torah | Sacred Dimensions: What Is “Holiness”? | Rabbi Goodman

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

The Jewish tradition is rich with holy places, holy days, holy items, and even holy people. But what does it truly mean for something to be deemed “holy” within Jewish life? This course invites us to explore the spiritual significance of both time and space in Judaism, uncovering the inherent holiness in both. We will [...]

Downtown Lunch & Learn | What’s the Deal with Jews & Halloween? | Rabbi Goodman

KMK Law One East Fourth St, 14th Floor (4th & Vine), Cincinnati

In this class, we will journey through the history, folklore, and contemporary customs of Halloween; unraveling the diverse ways in which Jewish communities engage with the popular Western holiday. From discussing the origins of Halloween to exploring Jewish perspectives on themes like death, remembrance, and festive celebration, this class offers a unique lens through which [...]

Torah Take 2 | A Jewish Perspective on Jesus | Courtney Anthony

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Who was the historical Jesus of Nazareth? This class will closely examine his life story within the context of the time and place in which he lived. What was daily life like? How would Jesus have practiced Judaism? What was the political climate? And how did a man who lived and died as a Jew [...]

Judaism 101 | Jewish Literatures and Texts (Session #4) | Rabbi Zachary Goodman

Wise Center‍ 8329 Ridge Ave, Amberley Village, OH

Explore the vast landscape of Jewish literatures and texts, from ancient scriptures to modern writings. Discover how these texts have influenced Jewish life, spirituality, and identity throughout the ages. If you have seen Fiddler on the Roof then you know that we think of ourselves as the people of the book. This week, we will [...]

Tuesdays with Torah | God Concepts in our Sacred Text that Stimulate our Personal Belief | Rabbi Lewis Kamrass

Wise Center, Zoom 8329 Ridge Road, Amberley Village

Contrary to what most people think, our classical literature of Bible, Talmud and other rabbinic literature are far from monolithic in theology or emphasis on qualities of God. These great sources reveal wide-ranging ideas of God, with many parallel tracks or viewpoints, none competing with one another, but each to challenge and to stimulate our [...]