Wednesdays 6:30p - 8:30p January 28 through April 29 (no class 2/11 & 4/1)

Suggested tuition: $200 for non members / $54 for members

Link to Register for From Zion to Zionism: A Critical Examination of Jewish Relationship to Land

In this course, we will trace the history of ideas that have shaped contemporary Jewish relationships to the land between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea. At a moment when Gaza has become a site of profound moral urgency, understanding the historical roots of today's crisis is more important than ever. This course offers that historical foundation. With particular focus on the evolution of Zionist, Diasporist, and Anti-Zionist movements from the modern era through the present day, we will unpack narratives about land in both secular and religious Jewish tradition. Starting with ancient archeological records and moving chronologically through the development of Israeli and Palestinian nationalisms in the 20th century, we will investigate how ideas about land have shaped Jewish consciousness and identity worldwide and come to bear on the struggle for Palestinian freedom. While our focus is historical rather than on current events, the frameworks we develop will equip us to think more critically about the present moment and how we, as Jews, might meet it.