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“Thrilling, creative, accessible, queer. Would you believe us if we told you we were describing the Talmud,
the foundational work
of rabbinic Judaism?

–  Julie Batz and Noah Westreich, SVARA Teaching Fellows

Learning at SVARA is centered around the spiritual practice of Talmud study, and anyone who knows their alef-bet (Hebrew letters) is able to join in. We serve it up the old-fashioned way, hardcore and traditionally radical.

Learning at SVARA is centered around the spiritual practice of Talmud study, and anyone who knows their alef-bet (Hebrew letters) is able to join in. We serve it up the old-fashioned way, hardcore and traditionally radical.

Check out our offerings below. There is something for everyone at SVARA!

Alef-Bet Basics

Each fall, we offer this seven-week journey through the Hebrew alphabet! Together we’ll learn the Hebrew letters and vocalizations in order to get you prepped and ready for future SVARA offerings.

Mishnah Collective

A daily SVARA learning space for folks of all backgrounds. Each session we work our way through a portion of a mishnah, piece by piece, in the SVARA method. No prior Hebrew experience or learning is necessary to participate!

Hot Off the Shtender

Hot Off the Shtender is a weekly blog that explores texts and reflections from the bet midrash. Lovingly referred to as “HOTS,” this is a SVARA resource you won’t want to miss.

The Oral Talmud

A weekly live stream that explores the Talmud through the “traditionally radical” lens pioneered here at SVARA. The series is hosted by our very own founder and Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Benay Lappe as well as Dan Libenson of Judaism Unbound.