Discover the remarkable world of Midrash—stories explaining and expanding stories in the Bible. We’ll read and discuss a fascinating book, Hineini in Our Lives by Rabbi Norman Cohen, guest lecturer for our March 2018 Rabbi Martin S. Weiner Lecture. Explore how these classical texts provide opportunities to reflect on who we are and how we relate to those close to us.

The Hebrew term hineini, “Here I am,” is uttered at critical moments by biblical characters or God. It generally connotes being present and receptive to the other, a readiness to act on behalf of the other, and the willingness to sacrifice for someone higher. We’ll see how Midrash enables us to apply the messages of these intriguing passages to each other and define the Divine power in the universe. Free.