The Torah's First Food Bank: Leket and the Jewish Safety Net
Description
The Torah commands us to provide food for those in need, but what does that mitzvah look like in a world of industrial agriculture, food waste, and modern food insecurity?
Together, we will explore biblical, rabbinic, and contemporary Jewish texts on hunger, agricultural justice, dignity, and communal responsibility. Beginning with mitzvot, we'll examine how Jewish tradition has grappled with the ethical obligations of farmers, communities, and individuals across the centuries. We'll then consider how these ancient values find new expression in modern-day Israel.
Through discussion, we will explore how ancient Jewish wisdom shapes our response to hunger today. No prior knowledge of Hebrew or Jewish texts is required, only curiosity and a willingness to explore timeless questions with fresh eyes.
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Rabbi Joel Seltzer is the CEO of American Friends of Leket Israel, Israel’s National Food Bank. Before joining Leket, he served as a Vice Chancellor at the Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS), helping advance one of the world's leading centers of Jewish learning.
An ordained rabbi of JTS, Rabbi Seltzer previously served as the spiritual leader of Temple Emanu-El in Providence and spent more than a decade as Executive Director of Camp Ramah in the Poconos. Throughout his career, he has combined teaching, community building, and nonprofit leadership, helping to strengthen Jewish communities and inspire the next generation.
A passionate educator, Rabbi Seltzer brings a thoughtful and engaging approach to Jewish learning, connecting timeless Jewish texts and values with the questions and challenges of contemporary life.
FAQs
- Who are these classes for?
Our classes are for everyone—whether you’re brand new to the topic or have been engaging with it for years, we encourage participation from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels. Unless otherwise noted, no prior knowledge or experience is needed. Not sure if a class is for you? Email us at Learning@Lehr.haus!
- Why are there tickets at different prices?
Our tickets utilize a Pay-What-You-Can model so attendees can pay a range of prices based on what they are able to pay to allow for greater accessibility. Please select the price point that feels right for you.
- Can I eat during class?
While we do not serve food in the study, you are welcome to order and enjoy drinks during class and join us for a meal before or after class. We highly recommend making a reservation if you know you'll be dining with us. Visit www.lehr.haus/reservation to check availability and book a table.
- Getting to Lehrhaus?
Street parking is readily available on Washington Street or Beacon Street (Map). The meters all take quarters or can be paid through the ParkBoston or ParkMobile apps. The closest T stops are Union Square (Green Line D & E, 0.8 mile walk, or #109 bus) and Harvard Square (Red Line, 0.8 mile walk, or the #109 bus). There is a bus stop just out front, on Washington (#83 and #109).
Learn More with Lehrhaus
We've now introduced a new way to learn at Lehrhaus, our Learning+ membership. It's designed to make learning a regular part of your routine.
Lehrhaus Learning+ members join a community built around big ideas, great conversations, and delicious meals. For $36/month, you get:
Two free class tickets every month
Unlimited 1:1 learning sessions with our educators
Member-only social events
Pre-sale access to special events
$25 Tavern gift card
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
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