Introduction to Judaism

As Progressive Jews, we are convinced that our religious approach offers a rich, valuable and wonderful framework for modern life.  Therefore we are delighted when anyone wishes to study and learn more about Judaism and our beliefs and practices.

Each of our congregations offers a variety of short courses, but in addition we work together to run an ongoing, structured and in-depth Introduction to Judaism course.  This is available in two forms – either as a conventional weekly class gathering in Melbourne, or as an ‘On-Line’ course with a personal tutor. The weekly class runs for a year, to experience the cycle of the Jewish year, and can only be commenced at certain points in the year.  The On-Line course can be undertaken at your own speed, though, as it too requires experience of the festivals as they occur, it also takes a minimum of a year. It may be commenced at any time.

Both courses follow the same structure and curriculum, consisting of seven units, and it is possible to switch from one to the other as circumstances dictate.

There are tuition fees for the courses – again, they are the same amount regardless of which approach you choose.  There are several set books required for the course, which will become the central parts of your ‘Jewish library’.

Who is ‘Introduction to Judaism’ for?

We recognize that everyone is an individual with their own journey as well as their own experiences and varying educational abilities.  In general terms, however, there are three different categories of people (18 years and over) who might find the course useful:

1)      Jews who wish to learn more about Judaism in a structured manner

2)      Non-Jews who wish to learn more about Judaism to expand their understanding

3)      Non-Jews who wish to learn more about Judaism in order to join the Jewish people (to convert)

You may find a variety of people, ages, faiths and backgrounds on the Introduction to Judaism course.

For further information on the taught classes, click here.

For further information on the on-line course, click here.