By Ashley Jones
It has been a pleasure to be a part of Rabbi Howard Markose’s Beit Midrash Course on Jewish Identity in Tanach. Every week, we get the opportunity to explore a new part of what makes the Jewish people distinct. We have covered topics from Shabbat to Conversion to Marriage. My favorite lesson so far has been our lesson on Kashrut. I have always struggled with what I believe about Kashrut since I am a Reform Jew. Even though I am not obligated to keep Kashrut, I was raised in a Kosher-style house. Rabbi Markose first explained to our class the difference between what the Torah says and what Rabbinic Judaism says on the topic before releasing us to work through what the Tanach says in Chevrutah. My partner was someone who does not keep kosher at all, so it made for an interesting dialogue about modern lifestyles vs. Jewish obligation. I learned that the Torah actually outlines all of the different animals that we cannot eat. I always thought that it was simply implied, similar to how we imply that we cannot mix milk and meat. This lesson impacted me because it re-affirmed that I should continue my Kosher-style lifestyle.
Aside from our lessons, I really enjoy Rabbi Markose as an educator. He really cares about the class and encourages every person to participate in the dialogue. Because there are only seven of us in the class, we are able to talk and bond at a deeper level than a larger class would be able to. Everyone gives a diverse perspective to Jewish topics because we all range in our backgrounds. I am thankful that Nachshon has given me the opportunity to participate in Beit Midrash work in a way I have never experienced. I remember in high school youth group being given a sheet of Jewish text and told to turn and talk about it. I hated how unnatural it felt to do. Now, I look forward to studying text and learning with Rabbi Markose every week. I am excited for the coming weeks of Beit Midrash and making my Jewish Identity more concrete.
