We will meet resilient individuals who evoke a sense of awe. Israel’s youth have distanced themselves from the ‘ME’ generation. Mourning parents and families of hostages will leave us in a state of disbelief. A remarried widow will share what it is like to simultaneously love two men. What motivates a reservist to volunteer to sacrifice his life and leave his family behind? Another, that of the Haredim. We can only wonder about God’s Face.

Our Torah demands of us to never concede to evil and its temptations. The numerous mitzvot listed reflect a commitment to dignified human behaviour always. Furthermore, this responsibility to uphold ethical behaviour is even expected of us during military activity against an enemy as cruel as Amalek.

Living in a world of natural disaster, terrorism, materialism, lack of self-fulfilment, betrayal, illness and racism can evoke a sense of meaninglessness. We will explore Dr. Erica Brown’s current book "Ecclesiastes and the Search for Meaning". How should I relate to temporality? Can I not create anything new under the sun? What approach should I have toward food and money? What emotions and relationships are significant to my life?

Essential to our People is the act of “V’higadta/You Shall Tell”. Often, we introduce critical values and personalities through engaging stories. This technique encourages us to see ourselves within the narrative. We will share and reflect upon stories from the Biblical, Talmudic, and Contemporary Periods.

We shall view Israel and her residents through images of poets such as Hayim Nahman Bialik, Rachel, Natan Alterman, Leah Goldberg, Zelda, Abba Kovner, Dan Pagis, Yehuda Amichai, Hair Gouri, Agi Mishol and Navit Barel. What role does a poet serve in society?

Firstly, a case will be made for why Israel and Judaism are to be seen as essential for life today. Secondly and as important, transmission techniques will be suggested. Thirdly, open discussion will be encouraged.

Session One: “Strength as a Virtue: The Changing Self-Image of The Jew”
Transitioning to one’s own Land called for a rejection of passivity and powerlessness. This was not easily accepted by Diaspora Jews accustomed to believing in the courage advocated for in Pirkei Avot: self-restraint. Texts will speak to this issue.
Session Two: “Dirty Hands and the Ethics of Responsibility”
How does one deal with national self-interest and partiality while respecting ethical constraints? How is a leader meant to confront conflicting values?

Many songs have been written inspired by our wars. Some are songs of memory and mourning. Others reflect pride and victory. While many are meant to lift our morale others offer criticism. We shall listen to and see current compositions and several that have been with us for decades.