Paradigms of human relationships, human vulnerabilities, as well as capacities for transcendence, biblical figures endlessly fascinate. This course examines the images of family relationships apparent in Biblical narrative. Like contemporary relationships, some are motivated by love and devotion, while others are generated by power, jealousy or self interest. What do these patterns suggest about Biblical perceptions of human nature? Of family obligations and gender roles? Of covenantal relationships that prepare us for a relationship with G-d? What do they offer to the contemporary reader?

Source material includes the Biblical text, classical midrash and modern readings by Robert Alter, Adin Steinsaltz, Elie Wiesel, Nehama Leibowitz, Aviva Zornberg, as well as others.