What we know of the past has everything to do with who is holding the lantern and the direction in which they cast the light. From the reclamation of ceremonies, such as the Simchat Bat (welcoming for baby girls), to the creation of new ritual objects, like the Miriam’s Cup on the seder table; from the rediscovery of women’s holidays, like the mourning ceremony for the biblical Yiftach’s daughter, to the celebration of a hidden holiday on the New Moon festival during Hanukkah; Jewish feminism and Jewish women’s studies have had a transformative effect on Jewish practice and contributed volumes to Jewish knowledge. Hear about examples of feminist interventions in Judaism and find out how they have added to the vitality of an always dynamic tradition.
Lori Lefkovitz, Ruderman Professor of Jewish Studies, Director of Jewish Studies Program, and professor of English, Northeastern University
Wednesday, March 13, 2024