Five Guiding Principles of Rabbi Josh’s Classes

Respect. We show respect, or kavod by treating seriously the questions and insights of people of all Jewish backgrounds, educations & orientations. That kavod extends to the texts themselves, which we treat seriously even when we find them challenging.

Depth. Jewish wisdom is often boiled down to slogans or easily digestible pleasantries. Rabbi Josh is committed to illuminating the awesome depth and power of Jewish texts, enabling students to see how they speak to the essential questions of our lives

Openness. We are open to one another’s experience and insights. We also have an open approach to learning, allowing curiosity to guide us through student questions and Rabbi Josh’s engagement with history, comparative theology, philosophy, and ethics.

Honesty. Reverence for the Jewish tradition includes honesty about it. The Jewish past can inspire and transform, and sometimes can clash with modern values. We engage texts fully: to understand, reinterpret, and sometimes challenge them.

Joy. Too often overlooked in Torah settings, a sense of fun and a little humor makes the learning environment accessible and enjoyable.