How is class?

Above: The Wilderness for more pictures of the Benjamin Field study click here



So… it has been almost a month. Each day I am challenged so much. I love it. Each class, paper, article, book presents new material with questions for me. For example, I have been skimming through the “History of the Jews” by Sachar. He is a theologian that does not claim any sort of belief in the God of the Jews. In fact, from his point of view Moses adopted his beliefs in God from his father in law! How interesting!

This morning I had Jewish thought and practice where the Rabbi was explaining the Mishnah (a compilation of explanations from Classic Rabbinical teachings from their oral traditions ( like commentaries). We read a story from the Old Testament that contained the name of Timna, an old testament concubine. Then we read part of the Mishnah that explained the story of Timna. Some rabbis say that she was a part of the royal family who wanted to become Jewish. She was told “No” so the next best thing was to be a concubine for a man in the Jewish practice instead. This got her closer to Judaism! I love all of the interesting thoughts that come up for me. I am definitely wrestling with these details and enjoying the new doors that continue to open.

Funny cultural "no-no's" so far...

1. I have walked into the men's restrooms more times than I can count... don't these places have signs?

2. Took an "Aerobic Dance class" in my street clothes from a Hebrew speaking woman! I just wanted to see what the place looked like on the inside... I didn't think I'd be taking an aerobics class!

3. When a famous Jewish scholar asked where I was from...I said "Seattle"... then when he didn't say anything... I happen to explain to him..."That is in Washington states... in the US"... turns out he lived in California for a while.