We are happy to welcome back Rabbi Rena Blumenthal to teach another class which will focus on the Book of Psalms.

Following a brief overview of the history of the book of Psalms and the structures of ancient Hebrew poetry, we will engage in a slow, contemplative reading of selected psalms. For each psalm we study, we will engage both the Hebrew text and multiple translations. The goal of the class is to deepen our appreciation for this ancient and beloved anthology of religious poetry and find ways in which the poems speak to our lives and our time. Although we will engage with the original Hebrew texts, no knowledge of Hebrew is required. This will primarily be a discussion-based class.

Rabbi Rena worked as a psychologist for fifteen years prior to attending rabbinical school. After ordination, she worked eleven years at Vassar College as Assistant Director of Religious & Spiritual Life and Advisor to Jewish Students. She is now a freelance rabbi – teaching, leading services, officiating at lifecycle events, and providing consultation services to college campuses. She is also the author of a novel, The Book of Israela.