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 [...]
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: [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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.
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 [...]
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 [...]
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.
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 [...]
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.
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.
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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. [...]
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. [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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.
Program Lead: Rabbi Lewis Kamrass
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 [...]
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.
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 [...]
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.
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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.
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
In Rabbi Kamrass’ last year of teaching this popular course, we will focus on the ancient rabbinic wisdom and texts that shape our fundamental values on Love, Family, Community and Time. Participants this year will delve into these important ideas and foundational texts to learn and to discuss. No prior experience of Talmud study is [...]
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 [...]
Parenting is a journey filled with profound joys and significant challenges, especially in these trying times for our communities and the world. Join us to strengthen our resilience as parents and discover ways to model these essential skills for our children.
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