The Sabbath

Catalog description

Taught by CDSP. This course will cover the origins and historical development of the Sabbath from the Bible until the present day. We will read religious sources on the meaning and observance of the Sabbath, study the phenomenology of the Sabbath experience, and analyze the role of the Sabbath in shaping Jewish literature, thought, and culture. Readings include selections from the Talmud, Maimonides, liturgy, Abraham Joshua Heschel, and modern poetry and short stories. Students are also expected to participate in a Sabbath service or meal during the Sabbath between the two weeks of the class and reflect on their experience. Students will write one brief reflection paper and a longer research paper. This satisfies the Interfaith elective requirement for MDiv students.