Submitted by Wise Temple
Isaac M. Wise Temple invites the community to take part in “Jewish Values & the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict,” an eight-session Sunday morning learning series led by Senior Rabbi Neil Hirsch. The series will take place from January through April 2026 at Wise Center.
Rooted in curriculum from the Shalom Hartman Institute, this course responds to one of the most challenging and emotionally charged issues facing the Jewish community today. For decades, Israel served as a unifying symbol across the global Jewish world. In recent years, especially following the events of October 7, 2023, it has also become a source of pain, tension and deep disagreement.
“Jewish Values & the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict” seeks to foster a sense of shared Jewish peoplehood by exploring the core values that shape a wide range of Jewish perspectives on Israel and the conflict. Participants will engage with themes such as justice, security, dignity, peoplehood and peace, while developing skills for respectful dialogue across difference.
Rather than promoting a single political stance, the series emphasizes thoughtful learning, honest engagement and the ability to hold complexity with care. The goal is to strengthen connection with the Jewish community, even amid disagreement, and to deepen understanding through shared values and open conversation.
“I’m eager to explore the texts and perspectives this course brings. Especially since October 7, better understanding the nature of the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians can only further help us as American Jews clarify for ourselves the experience of all who live in the region.”
—Senior Rabbi Neil Hirsch
Session Dates:
January 25
February 1, 8 and 22
March 8 and 15
April 12 and 19
