JUDS 1483 - D2 Jewish Life Cycle

Abstract

Course goals and objectives: This is mainly a halacha class, rather than a philosophy class. We will examine briefly a variety of issues pertaining to special events in the life of the Jew, including those of youth, adulthood, parenthood, and death. We will see some sources for each issue and in some cases take note of the development through our history. We will also emphasize the specific issues pertaining to women in each topic, as relevant. You will not be expected to be able to learn the sources on your own, or even to follow them inside, but you will be responsible for their content. In addition to the content goals, as described above, in this course we will emphasize the various origins of the halachot, and become familiar with the multi-leveled structure of halacha. We will pay attention to the evolution of various practices and regulations and policies over time, and thereby become more familiar with the halachic process. Finally, we will be reading some of the material from the sefer, so we will learn how to navigate a sefer halacha, specifically the Mishna Brura.

Topics for the course: 1) ברית - Brit Milah 2) פדיון הבן - Pidyon Haben 3) חינוך - Chinuch 4) בר\בת מצוה - Bar/Bat Mitzva 5) ש ידוכין - Dating 6) חתנות - Weddings 7) ל ידה - Childbirth 8) אבלות - Mourning