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MissionThe Teshuvah Institute for Living Judaism is a non-profit corporation whose mission is the promotion of Jewish values and Jewish spiritual practices through publications, classes, workshops, and other programs. The Teshuvah Institute for Living Judaism offers educational programs in conjunction with local sponsors. The Institute's work is aimed primarily at Jewish adults and young-adults who want to learn more about Judaism and who want to deepen their connection and practice of Jewish spirituality and religion. Some of the Institute's programs may also be of interest to Christians who want to learn about Judaism as it is understood from a Jewish perspective. Why Teshuvah Institute? Many people translate the Hebrew word teshuvah as repentance, or atonement. However, teshuvah more accurately translates as return - as in returning to one's authentic self, to an authentic life of Judaism, to Spirit, or to G-d. Why Living Judaism? Many Jews think that living a Jewish life primarily has to do with following a lot of rules and commandments - what to do, what not to do, what to eat, what not to eat, etc. According to the traditional view, all of these commandments were given to us by G-d and they must be accepted and followed without question. But, the vast majority of Jews alive today don't find this explanation to be meaningful or compelling enough - and this is one reason that modern Jews are increasingly assimilating, giving up their Jewish heritage through lack of interest, and handing down an ever diminishing sense of Jewish identity to their children. Living Judaism represents Jewish life as a web of relationships and responsibilities, facilitated and given structure by mitzvoth and traditional Jewish practices. Instead of focusing on and defining a Jewish life according to a long list of rules, the focus of Living Judaism is on relationships and responsibilities and how they acquire greater coherence and meaning through Jewish practice, rituals, and traditions. Our programs and point of view won't speak to everyone. Yet, so many Jews have been turned off by traditional synagogue or Hebrew school Judaism; and so many others have had little or no Jewish education or influence in their lives. The Teshuvah Institute for Living Judaism offers non-traditional ways of understanding and learning about Judaism, and assistance and encouragement to Jews who want to make Judaism an integral and meaningful part of their life. For many people, this is just the return they're looking for. If you would like to discuss scheduling a speaker, sponsoring a program, or are interested in attending one of our classes or workshops, please contact:
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Copyright © 2006 TESHUVAH INSTITUTE FOR LIVING JUDAISM
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