These courses are offered in Men branches only.
Major focus of this course includes identifying nature of text, e.g., legal or supra-legal, identifying primary and supplemental material through analysis of the Talmudic discussion in search of the axiological concepts around which the discussion revolves through analysis of its structure. The course allows for a cross-section of different kinds of texts giving the student a broad range of topics with which to apply numerous research techniques and gain a familiarity with different commentaries and their style. The text may vary from course to course as per instructor’s choice. A student will also learn the stylistic differences between later commentators and the hierarchical structure of commentators in general thereby gaining the knowledge of when and how to use each commentary in order to research a passage of the Talmud. The Intermediate Talmud courses become progressively more advanced as a student is expected to gain independence in researching and studying early and contemporary commentaries. The student will also acquire knowledge at a greater depth as he progresses from course to course through the year.
Major focus of this course is in-depth analytical discussion of Talmudic texts and commentaries in the traditional iyun method. Students prepare the texts along with Rishonim and Acharonim under instructor’s guidance. The lecture is devoted to study of the substance and essence of the text along with the variety of interpretive opinion represented in the commentaries, and to elucidation of major principles, their conceptual underpinnings and varied applications.
Advanced Talmud 404, 405, 406, 407, and 408 are generally taught over one to one and a half years, and the student is expected to gain increasing proficiency in Talmudic iyun methodology as he progresses. Tractate may vary from year to year.
The course focuses on developing language skills and the ability to decipher the cryptic Talmudic text and reconstruct the dialogue. While increasing the student’s knowledge it grants him the tools to increase it even more. Learning in breadth rather than in depth makes a student conversant in a variety of areas in Talmudic thought. Text selection may vary.
For Halacha (Jewish Law) or Philosophy courses, please see the appropriate areas.