Beyond Right:
The Values that Shape Judaism's Civil Code
This course has passed. If you would be interested in a re-run of this course please email rabbi@jewishbattersea.com
6 Wednesday evenings, 1st June - 6th July 8:15-9:30 PM.
In-person or on Zoom, register for the address and Zoom link.
Talmudic analysis and mind-bending logic have long been a hallmark of Jewish scholarship. But buried beneath much of the discussion and legalese are core Jewish values that fuel so much of the debate.
This course examines a number of key legal issues that disclose fundamental ethical considerations that serve as the engine of Jewish civil law.
Scroll down for the full lesson overview.
Use the below form to register.
You can register for the entire course or book single classes.
Please consider making a donation to help bring more such learning opportunities to the community, all donors of £75 and above will receive a complementary textbook.
LESSON OUTLINE
Lesson 1
Beyond Good Neighbors
1st June
Most laws are designed to protect the rights of people and their property. But Judaism’s civil code is driven by a different goal. Explore how laws of damages and disputes support a uniquely Jewish view of the human mission.
Lesson 2
Beyond Restitution
8th June
In seeking to restore the rights of plaintiffs, Jewish courts actively assist offenders in achieving full repentance too. Why? Discover the advantage of properly undoing damage over mere compensation.
Lesson 3
Beyond Taking Offense
15th June
You may feel a moral urge to speak up against an offensive action. But might you have a legal responsibility to deter someone from certain behaviors? Judaism says: Yes. In this lesson, we discuss why and when.
Lesson 4
Beyond Personal Freedom
22nd June
With 613 commandments in the Torah and myriad rules expounded in the Talmud, can Judaism ever be called “liberating”? Let’s delve into the Exodus, the covenant, and the ways in which laws can lead to the purest human freedom.
Lesson 5
Beyond Lawful Ownership
29th June (zoom only)
Is the claim of ownership anything more than a subjective social agreement? A foundation of Chassidic thought is that material possessions contain spiritual energy that is specific to their owners. Let’s consider the owner’s rights and responsibilities through this lens.
Lesson 6
Beyond Presumption of Innocence
6th July
While a presumption of innocence can protect defendants from liability, it is not quite a declaration of uprightness. Jewish law goes so far as to presume every person’s core goodness. See how this view can lead us to a truly upright world.