Regina Jonas
Seminary

The Regina Jonas Seminary offers a liberal rabbinical education that unites Jewish tradition with spiritual openness, intellectual depth, and a strong sense of social responsibility.

Named after Regina Jonas, the first woman ever ordained as a rabbi (Berlin, 1935), the seminary is dedicated to her vision of an egalitarian, enlightened, and spiritually vibrant Judaism.

We train rabbis who teach with clarity, accompany others with empathy, and actively shape Jewish life in Germany and Europe — today and into the future.

What Distinguishes Us

Intensive rabbinical training in the German-speaking world
Solid academic and practical approaches
Personal mentoring by experienced rabbis
A learning culture that fosters dialogue, diversity, and reflection
Strong connections with communities, institutions, and international networks

What Matters to Us

Independent thinking
Depth in tradition
Rootedness in Jewish practice
Openness to social change
Jewish renewal grounded in responsibility and respect

Study Content

1. Classical Jewish Learning

Torah, Tanakh, Mishnah, Talmud
Midrash
Halakha
Jewish theology and philosophy from the Middle Ages to the modern era

2. Liturgy and Religious Practice

Prayers, siddurim, piyyutim
Structure and music of the worship service
(weekday, Shabbat, holidays, and the Jewish year)
Life cycle rituals

3. Pastoral Care and Personal Development

Counseling and communication skills
Support in diverse life situations
Approaching crises with care
Self-reflection and role clarity
Spiritual practice

4. Community Practice and Education

Didactics and education of adult Jews
Community structures and leadership responsibility
Public engagement and interreligious dialogue

5. Language and Textual Competence

Biblical, rabbinic, and modern Hebrew
Working with original sources
Translation and liturgical language