COURSE SYLLABUS
Lesson One
East of Eden
All cultures have creation stories to describe how we got here. But the Torah tells us about our creation to let us know what we are here for. By examining the idyllic nature of the garden of Eden, we can better understand the special purpose for which man and woman were created.
Lesson Two
Heart of Darkness
Is it possible that being good is overrated? The serpent made the case for evil and managed to convince Eve that there were real benefits to disobeying G‑d's commands. This lesson delves into the very essence of evil - its purpose, its possibilities, and its pitfalls.
Lesson Three
Paradise Lost (...and Found)
Can we ever reclaim innocence? In a few short moments, Adam and Eve destroyed a perfect world and were immediately wracked with shame and regret. Then Adam and Eve were taught about repentance and its ability to transform and redeem.
Lesson Four
Death in the Family
Cain and Abel responded to the catastrophe of the expulsion from Eden in different ways: Cain became a farmer, focusing primarily on worldly pursuits, while Abel became a shepherd, preoccupied with the spiritual. Ultimately, neither worldview was sustainable.
Lesson Five
Brave New World
The generation of the flood is a story of a wealthy, technologically advanced society that was so evil that it had to be washed away. How are we able to better guard against the evils bred by material excess? In this lesson, we consider why societies are destroyed, and how they may be rehabilitated.
Lesson Six
The Old Man and the Sea
Noah, in spite of his righteousness, was not able to influence others. Yet Abraham taught a world of idolworshipers to believe in G‑d. Why did Abraham succeed where Noah failed? And how can we embrace the legacy of our father Abraham, leading those around us to seek goodness and truth?