The study program of the Abraham J. Heschel Conservative (Masorti) Seminary is comprehensive and varied. The academic curriculum is integrated into the BA and MA programs in Jewish Theology at the University of Potsdam, while the rabbinical curriculum is independent. Most of the university classes take place from Monday to Wednesday, and the courses at the Heschel Seminary are on Wednesday afternoon/evening, and Thursday and Friday morning. The following courses will be offered in the winter semester 2024/2025:
Different lecturers, under the guidance of the heads of the Seminary, discuss topics from Biblical, Talmudic, medieval and modern sources in connection to the contemporary challenges of Jewish life. Students analyze the developments of the rabbinic teaching and explore moral issues in order to work on them in their future positions.
This course explores the rich theological tradition of Judaism and draws on texts from philosophy, mysticism, Mussar, Haggada and contemporary religious thinkers. The students deepen different approaches to Jewish philosophy and learn how to formulate their own views.
Chapters of the Talmud are supplemented by readings from Mishna, Tosefta and Rishonim. The objectives of this class are improvement of the Hebrew and Aramaic language skills, connection of Talmudic texts with the Tanakh and the development of students’ own skills in analyzing commentaries and sources.
This course focuses on the central halachic Texts (Mishneh Torah, Beit Yosef, Shulchan Aruch, Tur, Mishnah Berurah) and medieval and modern Responses. The students learn how to handle the halachic literature and apply it in their work.
This course explores selected chapters from the Chumash alongside classical commentaries such as Rashi, Ibn Ezra, and Ramban. The focus is on deepening Hebrew language skills, understanding the literary structures of biblical texts, and developing skills in dealing with exegetical sources and their historical-religious context.
This course explores central themes of Masorti philosophy using classical and modern texts. The focus is on the relationship between Halacha and modernity, the theological interpretation of revelation and tradition, and questions of Jewish identity in the tension between continuity and renewal. The course encourages students to engage with fundamental texts and develop their own perspectives within the framework of Masorti thought.
This course offers personal instruction in liturgical practice, including Nusach HaTefilah and Taamei HaMikra. The students acquire in-depth skills in the nuances of Jewish liturgical traditions.
This course teaches pastoral care skills to support the well-being of the congregation members. The program is based on traditional Jewish sources along with contemporary pedagogy and psychology.
Individual and group supervision to support students during their studies and internships in order to support them in overcoming challenges and their personal development.
At the end of the semester, two-week block seminars on selected topics may take place, possibly in cooperation with the Regina Jonas Seminary.
