The Sabbath and the Festivals in Jewish Liturgy, Ritual and Theology

The cycle of the Jewish year is shaped by the shabbat and the festivals. From the roots in biblical times, through Rabbinic Judaism and medieval customs, to contemporary developments, these sacred and special days were transformed and re-interpreted. This course will provide an overview of the liturgy, the ritual and the theology. Naturally, we can only highlight certain liturgical creations, some rituals, and note how theological reflection and elaboration looked for the meaningful dimension of these practices. Shabbat, the pilgrimage festivals (Pesach, Shavuot, and Sukkot), the Days of Awe (Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur) are the key themes.