Making Midrash: Re-Imagining God, Radically

Taught by Jess Belasco

Tuesdays, October 24th through December 12th
8-10pm ET | 7-9pm CT | 5-7pm PT

Did you know that the ancient Rabbis loved fanfiction? They called it “midrash,” and the best part is that you (yes, you!) can continue this tradition.

In this offering, we’ll use a radical lens to read and write midrash. Our focus will be on midrash—both ancient and modern—that presents God in a vulnerable or otherwise surprising way. (Have you ever imagined God praying? Our Rabbis did! What about God being disabled? A modern rabbi has!) We’ll emphasize multiple radical lenses in this class, uplifting disability justice in particular. Hebrew reading ability is not required. Belief in God is also not at all required—in fact, we will foreground the question of what it might mean for atheists and agnostics to tell stories about God.

We know that virtual learning comes with a holy host of nuances and it can be hard to know exactly what to expect of an online experience. For that reason, we’ve gathered a list of the nitty-gritty details that will help you envision the fullest picture of each of our offerings!

Specs on this learning space:

• We’ll meet once a week on Tuesdays from 8–10pm ET
• There are eight sessions and regular attendance, to the extent that each learner is able, is strongly encouraged. However, we understand that access needs may interfere with attendance, and we strive to make this class as accessible as possible.
• No “homework” required between sessions
• Includes breakout spaces
• All learning materials will be available digitally
• Live captioning is available in the main Zoom space. If you would benefit from live captioning in breakout rooms, you can request it in our enrollment form!

Register!