Fall in love with your tradition.

Two learners sit together at a table in the bet midrash. A SVARA Fairy is leaning on the table, looking towards the learning materials spread out in front of them. Everyone is masked, and sunlight streams in through an open window.

SVARA’s mission is to empower queer and trans people to expand Torah and tradition through the spiritual practice of Talmud study.

The Meaning of Svara

2,000 years ago, the Rabbis of the Talmud used the word svara to refer to one’s moral intuition. Today, we inspire our learners through deep Jewish learning and equip them with the skills, tools, and orientations they need to push our tradition forward.

Two SVARA-niks are seated next to one another in the bet midrash. They are both wearing kippot - one is rainbow and one is brown plaid.

Publications & Resources

SVARA is home to a growing collection of innovative resources created by our community, from Talmudic commentary to trans-authored rituals and teshuvot.

Two SVARA-niks are studying Talmud in the bet midrash. They are seated next to one another wearing N-95 face masks, looking down toward the daf in front of them.

Invest in SVARA

Our donors and philanthropic partners make it possible for SVARA to build a vibrant learning space: one that celebrates queer culture, elevates voices from the margins, and reveals the deeply-rooted radical queerness of Jewish traditions.

Want to learn more? We’d love to connect!