Judaism Decoded sheds light on the mysteries of biblical interpretation. How do we know our interpretation is authentic? If it is, why are there differing opinions? And with so many interpretations to choose from, how do we know which one reflects the Torah's original intent?

Discover the sheer elegance of the "source code" on which Torah law is built. Experience the razor-sharp reasoning, intelligent debate, and compelling arguments of the Talmudic dialectic; and gain a fascinating, behind-the-scenes look at the most intellectually sophisticated religions in existence.

 

Join us for Six Sundays
Starting February 1, 2026
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Location:
CHABAD HOUSE JEWISH CENTER
34 Cedar Street, Milford, MA

On the registration form, you will have the choice to join in-person at Chabad, via zoom or hybrid (i.e. mix of in-person and Zoom)

Fee:
$80 (textbook included)
Couples discount: $145 (includes 2 textbooks)!

Not sure if this class is for you?
You’re welcome to try the first class free, with no obligation to continue. Simply click “Join Now” and then select “Try the First Class.”

For more information:
Call: 508.473.1299
Email: [email protected]

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1. THE DYNAMIC DUO

If we have a written law, why do we need tradition? And if we have a tradition, what's the role of a written law? Discover the brilliance of this dual system, and how it has kept Jewish tradition intact for millennia.

2. A FORMULA FOR ETERNITY

Circumstances change, and, in most cases, so do the rules. Unless, those rules were designed as timeless principles with a built-in formula to make them apply to any situation that may arise. Explore the systematic method through which Jewish law is applied to solve new, modern-day dilemmas.

3. RABBIS MAKING RULES

Is my rabbi allowed to change the law when he deems it necessary? When do rabbis have the authority to legislate new laws? And what safeguards prevent a rabbi or any individual from reshaping Judaism at will?

4. DEBATING THE DIVINE

The Talmud is filled with debate. If the law is Divine, why is there room for discussion and disagreement? When there are differences of opinion, how do we determine the final law? And why does the Talmud record opinions that were ultimately overruled?

5. LAWS THAT EXPIRE

While most Jewish practices are as relevant today as ever, some laws have reasons that no longer apply. When does a law expire? How is it revoked? And why might a practice continue even after its original rationale is no longer relevant?

6. EVIDENCE FOR SINAI

Judaism encourages us to question. How do we know the Torah is true? Why was Maimonides so convinced about the historic truth of the revelation at Sinai? Is there any empirical evidence to support his claim?

Dr. Eugene Kontorovich
Professor of Law, Northwestern University

An extraordinarily sophisticated examination of Talmudic methodology, tackling the toughest questions about the nature and legitimacy of rabbinic law, combining high academic rigor with fundamental rooting in Jewish tradition.

Dr. Susan Handelman
Professor of English, Bar-Ilan University

This superb course will enable each participant to enter into the fascinating world of Talmud, sharpen his or her mind, and understand the foundations of Jewish law and its application to critical contemporary issues.

Dr. Jeremy Rabkin
Professor of Law, George Mason University

Anyone with an interest in legal reasoning should engage with the Talmud, which records some of the oldest and most subtle interpretations of fundamental law. Judaism Decoded offers a fine introduction to Talmudic methods.