Opening the Beit Midrash
Azara is a new initiative creating Jewish text learning for everyone in the UK.
Hasidut for facing ecological collapse and cultivating belonging, with Yael Roberts.
Online Wednesday 14, 21, 28 October, 6.30 – 8pm
As we face record-breaking temperatures this summer in the UK, we may find in Hasidut, the spiritual strand in our tradition from Eastern Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries, resourcing and inspiration for how we face the crises of today. With Yael Roberts, we will read Hasidic sources that enable us to face what Marge Piercy calls the “searing heat of our time,” through turning towards nature, belonging, and place, and we will build our skills in reading Hasidic homilies.
Our Story
Azara was formed from two grassroots groups, Open Talmud Project and Pop-Up Beit Midrash. We’re coming together from across the community because we think the Torah belongs to everyone.
AZARA participant
“Azara has given me an opportunity I have only ever had in Jerusalem or New York. To study complex Jewish text, at a high level, in the original with excellent teachers, but, most importantly, with an unprecedented diversity of participants. We read, discuss and argue our way through traditional texts but with people who I have never had the privilege of studying together – Orthodox, progressive, liberal, ex-chareidi, LGBTQI+, across class and parts of the UK.”
Help us grow the Beit Midrash
Azara would be nothing without our friends, volunteers, and donors. If you want to make Torah learning possible in the UK, we need your help. Whether it’s a spare afternoon or a few pounds, we can’t do it without you. Regardless of your contribution, you’ll be welcome to learn with us, because we’re making the Beit Midrash open to everyone.
Stay in touch
Sign up to our newsletter to be first to hear about our classes, events, and news.