Teshuvot with Rabbi Bruce Bromberg Seltzer (3 Week Course)

Teshuvot (Rabbi, can I ask you a question?) 3 Weeks: December 8, 15, 22

She’elot u’Teshuvot (Questions and Answers) are a form of rabbinic literature that play an important role in Jewish law and practice. This massive body of literature (still growing in print and online) takes the form of an individual or community asking their Rabbi or a Posek (recognized authority) a question on how to act (or a Rabbi posing a theoretical question). In addition to helping a Jew know how to act, they have historical and sociological value as they demonstrate how Jews lived, worked, related to their communities, and what they cared about at a particular moment in time. Join Rabbi Bruce as we study historical and modern Teshuvot and learn how to get answers to your questions.

This class is part of a 28 week series Unlocking the Jewish Library: Encountering Judaism’s Sacred Texts

The library of Jewish sacred literature is a vast ocean. Spanning more than 3,500 years, these texts were written across continents, cultures, and centuries. They speak in many voices and genres—from narrative and poetry to legal discourse and spiritual reflection. Each generation builds upon what came before, creating an ongoing conversation that links us to our ancestors while inviting us to bring our own experiences, questions and insights.

This 28-week course, led by eight different teachers, offers an accessible introduction to the major genres of Jewish sacred literature and the relationships between them. Together we will explore Mishnah, Talmud, Midrash, Halachah, Responsa (Teshuvot), Tefilah, Chasidut, Kabbalah–with the aim of gaining a deeper appreciation for the texts that continue to shape Jewish life and tradition.

Participants are encouraged to join the full course (all eight modules), but are also welcome to register for individual modules. Classes are designed to be engaging and meaningful for both beginners and seasoned learners. No prior knowledge or experience is required—only curiosity and a willingness to explore.