The Book of Leviticus – The Basis for Holiness

July 4-25, 2018

The book of Vayikra (Leviticus) is the third book of the Pentateuch (Torah). The essence of the book is expressed in a single word, ‘holiness’, an idea in the verse: “Holy are you to be, for holy am I, YHWH your God” (19.2).  Leviticus is all about how Israel was to live as a holy nation. Among the topics to be dealt with are: the sacrificial order, concern for the ‘other’ (sojourners, strangers, the unwanted), dietary laws, sabbath, festival and feasts, sexual relations, among others.

Methodology

Based on readings from the Book of Leviticus and its accompanying prophetic readings, we will explore aspects of holiness and intimacy with God, utilizing rabbinic sources such as midrash and Talmud, as well as Jewish and Christian commentators from late antiquity to modernity. Of equal importance are the various academic and pastoral approaches to the Book of Leviticus that will encourage a new encounter with the Book and a renewed view on cultural and religious attitudes. The course is taught by a team of Jewish and Christian professors.

Costs:

$3,950 US includes: all tuition including Hebrew classes, excursion costs, study materials, and full board single accomodation with ensuite in St. Charles Hospice, German Colony, Jerusalem.

Fees may be paid in US dollars or Euros.

Health Insurance: It is essential that each partipant has medical insurance during his/her stay in Israel. Those not covered by medical insurance from their home countries are required to purchase Israeli insurance before traveling.  Please let us know which coverage you will be using.

An extra budget is necessary for persona expenses. Life is expensive in Israel, so please ensure that you have adequate packet money.

Lodging:

Bat Kol Institute selects as its ‘home base’ for the Study Sessions some of the most beautiful and historic sites in Jerusalem. Summer 2018 students will live in community within the spacious and peaceful walled gardens of the St Charles Convent/Guest House in the German Colony of Jerusalem, a short walk from the Old City.

Travel arrangements: Participants are urged to arrange for flights that will arrive in Israel on the morning or afternoon of July 4, 2018.  The program will begin with dinner that evening.  Information about the cost of additional nights will be sent to participants.

Payment:

A non-refundable deposit of $150 US is due by May 1, 2018.  

The balance is payable before the start of the classes.

Note: students taking the course for academic credit must pay an additional feel of $250 US. 

How to pay:  You may pay by bank transfer to:

Religious of Our Lady of Sion

Mercantile Discount Bank 

Jerusalem Main Branch # 642

64 Jaffa Street

Jerusalem – Israel

Swift Code: BARDILIT

Account#  8006654

IBAN: IL510176420000008006654

A bank transfer service cost of $25.00 US must be added to the total amount being transferred.

When paying by bank transfer, please advise Bat Kol by email (gill@batkol.info) as soon as the transfer is made, noting the name of the sending bank and the transfer number so that your payment will be properly credited to your account.

Refund policy

• The $150 US deposit is non-refundable.
• If a student withdraws from the program up to 30 days prior to commencement, a 100% refund will be issued.
• If a student withdraws from the program 14 days prior to commencement, a 40% refund will be issued.
• Between 14 days prior to and 3 days following the commencement of the program, 20% of the tuition fees paid may be refunded.
• If a student is required to withdraw from the Bat Kol Program for academic or conduct reasons after the program officially begins, no money will be refunded.
• A full refund of tuition fees paid may be given in special circumstances upon the discretion of Bat Kol Institute.

Cancellation of Program: 

The organizers reserve the right to cancel the course with advance notice, due to unforeseen circumstances.