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National College Credit Recommendation Service

Board of Regents  |  University of the State of New York

Rechtschaffen Institute of Judaic Studies | Evaluated Learning Experience

Philosophy and Meaning in Jewish Prayer (Jewish Studies 320/320 DL)

Formerly Philosophy and Meaning in Jewish Prayer (Jewish Thought 320/320 DL)
Length: 

Varies; self-study format.  

Location: 
Various; distance learning format.
Dates: 

October 2010 - March 2021. (Course and exam ended.)

Instructional delivery format: 
Online/distance learning
Learner Outcomes: 

Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: demonstrate a thorough knowledge about the inner meaning and philosophy behind Jewish prayer; explain the principals of the Shema; the blessings; the Shemona Esrei; Ashrei; and Aleinu; analyze underlying premises; integrate these concepts to all aspects of prayer; discuss why they pray; why God wants prayer; and how the set prayers achieve the prescribed goals.

Instruction: 

The course explores the philosophy and meaning of Jewish Prayer based on the systematic application of methodology provided in the masterpiece, The Way of God, by Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato, the commentary of the Malbim on Ashrei and the Abudraham on Aleinu; principles, customs, and meaning of Jewish Prayer. Topics include: unity; function of prayer; mankind's position in the creation; mankind's purpose; the function of evil; mankind's relationship and service to God. Instruction for the distance learning course is delivered through a series of forty audio lectures.

Credit recommendation: 

Proficiency Exam: In the lower division baccalaureate/associate degree category, 3 semester hours in Judaic Studies, Near Eastern Studies, Philosophy, or Religion (2/11) (3/16 revalidation). Distance learning course: In the upper division baccalaureate degree category, 3 semester hours in Philosophy, Judaic Studies, Near Eastern Studies, or Religion (2/11) (3/16 revalidation).

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