A Case of Mixed Emotions: Love and Fear of God in Jewish Thought

April 28, 2019    
10:00 am - 11:30 am

Marc Ashley’s adult education course between Pesah and Shavuot

Sunday, April 28 at 10 am; Mondays, May 6 and May 13 at 7:30 pm *(note revised dates)

The very first word of the first paragraph of the Shema prayer instructs – indeed commands – us to love God, with all our heart, soul and might. Yet Proverbs counsels us that the “beginning of wisdom is the fear of God.” Those visceral emotions, at least at first glance, seem conflicting rather than complementary. So which is the core and foundation of our relationship with God – love or fear? Which approach takes priority? Both love and fear of God are crucial religious directives, but reconciling them can be challenging. Please join congregant Marc Ashley for his annual adult education class between Pesah and Shavuot. This year’s course, “A Case of Mixed Emotions: Love and Fear of God in Jewish Thought,” will be held in the Or Zarua library on Sunday, April 28 at 10 am, and on Monday evenings on May 6 and May 13 at 7:30 pm. No prior knowledge is required. Please come and participate in this important conversation on a crucial theme in Jewish thought through the ages.