By Eva Bogolomly
Prior to coming on Nachshon, I had very limited experience with studying text. I felt that due to this lack of exposure, my literacy in text-based study was not as evolved as other fellows amongst the cohort. However, throughout the weekly courses at Pardes in addition to other text-based learning I have found a deeper connection to this form of learning. I find it engaging learning from those around me who have had experience with this and I enjoy providing a new vantage point.
The cohort recently participated in a seminar about Social Activism from a Jewish perspective, what we call “Tikkun Olam.” The seminar was led by Dyonna Ginsburg, Executive Director of OLAM. Our morning began by hearing about Dyonna’s personal story and transitioned into an activity which enabled us to determine causes we were passionate about (and less passionate about) as individuals and as a group. What resonated with me was a statement Dyonna made in regards to her often wanting to help causes within her own community, rather than those further from reach. When evaluating which “cause” I found to be the most relevant to me, it happened to be working on inclusion for people with disabilities amongst the Jewish Community, something that is attainable for me to positively impact. While helping those outside of one’s community is of course important, we can often have a greater impact when the cause is close to home.
As our day continued on we transitioned into a textual-based study which was titled “To Whom Am I Obligated?” As we split into smaller groups, varying in levels of text-based literacy, we were provided with six sources relating to "Circles of Responsibility" when it comes to giving charity. As we discussed the various texts, we would break them into portions in order to grasp smaller concepts. The questions that would arise in small group discussions would soon then be answered as we continued to read. I find it powerful and inspiring that there are guidelines to giving charity described texts that were written hundreds (and thousands) of years ago, which are still pertinent to my life today.
I kept thinking how special it is that within Judaism we not only have a commandment to give charity, but even guidelines on and how and to whom we give.
The text which we read quickly became incredibly relevant to my life and helped me better understand the reasoning behind the causes I take action for. Furthermore, it was an energizing experience reading the text with other fellows and being able to identify questions we had. As we kept reading, each source helped us to better grasp the complexities behind giving.
