4 Wednesdays, May 3rd - May 24th

7:30-9:00 PM

Instructor: Rabbi Avrohom Blesofsky

Location: Chabad of Union County, 1400 Martine Ave, Scotch Plains

Fee: $99

Course Overview

Signs, spirits and superstition in Jewish belief

Humans have forever been fascinated by the mysterious: that which lies beyond the realm of the natural and rational world we spend most of our time operating in. Even as modern science advances, and our understanding of the natural world deepens, our fascination with the paranormal has only grown stronger.

The significance of dreams; the predictive powers of the stars; the influence of the evil eye; the effectiveness of a curse or blessing; the existence of otherworldly spirits, angels, or demons; and the possibility of interaction with intelligent extraterrestrials are questions that have forever inspired curiosity, eliciting diverse reactions of delight or derision, devotion or dread.

Interest in the paranormal has peaked in recent years, especially on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing economic uncertainty. Many are experiencing insecurity regarding their life and future, and are turning to the realm of the supernatural for information, guidance, and reassurance.

Rising to the challenge, the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) researched the vast depths of the Talmud, Jewish philosophy, and kabbalah and synthesized the resultant insights on the above topics in a brand-new course, entitled Jewpernatural. Now, Jewish audiences worldwide will have unprecedented access to a systematic exploration of the genuine Jewish perspective and guidance on the perennial questions of the paranormal.

Exploring the mysteries that lie beyond deepens and enriches our understanding of the Jewish perspective on basic philosophical questions such as free choice, Divine reward and punishment, and fate. In this way, the study of the paranormal opens a window into core Jewish teachings regarding the world we inhabit, our role and destiny within its setting, and empowering ways in which we can shape and enhance our universe