The Wisdom of Our Heart

Eight basic ideas that make up our teachings:

1. The Infinite Spirit (Ayn Sof) is One.
2. Everyone can know Ayn Sof.
3. Loving kindness (Chessed) infuses all reality.
4. All processes of the universe reflect the Divine. These processes are both personal and intimate.
5. The soul seeks to know itself. All beings will attain perfect self-awareness in the fullness of time.
6. We are co-creators of reality. Human beings are part of and partners in the ongoing creation of the universe.
7. Community heals. We have the responsibility to work together to make the world a better place, to help manifest the presence of Ayn Sof.
8. These teachings are embodied in the mitzvahs and a covenanted community.

Pre-registration is required for all intensive learning programs. To pre-register, please call 510.704.9687 or email frontdesk@chochmat.org.

The Spirit of Integrity

Sundays: January 13, February 10, March 9, April 13, May 4, and June 1
11am-1:30pm
Fee: $225 members; $300 general public
Last two classes changed in honor of Mothers' Day and Shavuot, please see new dates.

The existence of the world rests upon three pillars -- Torah (wisdom), Avodah (spiritual practice) and Gemilut Chassadim (deeds of loving kindness).
-- Pirkay Avot

In Torah there is no distinction between the spiritual and the ethical. The mitzvot or commandments between humans and God find expression in how we treat our fellow humans. Every story of spiritual ascent is juxtaposed to mitzvot concerned with how we create a just and caring society. The message is clear—ecstatic experience must translate into action —otherwise it is irrelevant! This program will be devoted to studying inspirational teachings from Torah, Kabbalah and Mussar that illustrate the relationship between the mystical and the ethical. Monthly sessions will focus on cultivating “midot ha'nefesh”—core virtues or soul qualities that help us embody the divine presence in our daily lives. We will explore ways to express this vision in the larger community through a service project or deeds of loving kindness so that together we create a nurturing community in which we may grow in wisdom, spirit and integrity.

Suggested Readings: A Code of Jewish Ethics: You Shall Be Holy by Rabbi Joseph Telushkin; Mishneh Pirkay Avot; Everyday Holiness by Alan Morinis; Sacred Therapy by Estelle Frankel; Ethical Tales from the Kabbalah by Aryeh Wineman; Chofetz Chaim: A Lesson a Day by Art Scroll Publication; Ein Yaakov -- Excerpts from Talmudic Tales