Wednesdays, January 14, 2026 - May 13, 2026, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
About
This January, Madison Jewish clergy will teach our cross-denominational Introduction to Judaism course. We teach this every other year. It will cover a wide range of topics concerning the fundamentals of Jewish thought, history, texts, and practice over the 16 sessions we will spend together. This course is open to anyone who is interested in learning about the basics of Judaism. It's perfect for those thinking about converting to Judaism, interfaith couples, or individuals who would like to broaden their knowledge.
Dates, Location, and Syllabus
Class begins on January 14, 2026 and runs until May 13, 2026. It meets from 7:00-8:30 p.m. This year we will meet at Temple Beth El (2702 Arbor Drive). This is primarily an in-person class, but there will be a Zoom option. Zoom information will be sent to registered participants. We will not meet on April 7 (Passover).
See our class schedule.
Tuition
Members of a Madison synagogue: $100 per person, $175 per couple
Non-members: $150 per person, $250 per couple
Undergraduate or Graduate students: $50 per person, $100 couple
*We have a twelve student minimum for the class to take place. Scholarships are available. Tuition does not include the cost of books.
Reading List
We suggest reading these books throughout the course:
Essential Judaism by George Robinson
Thinking About God by Kari Tuling
The Sabbath by Abraham Joshua Heschel
Jewish History: The BIG Picture by Gila Gevirtz
Other Resources
www.myjewishlearning.com
www.bimbam.com