Torah for Everyone
Making Torah Meaningful to You
Are you curious about what's in the Torah and whether it might be meaningful to you? While Torah is at the core of Jewish tradition, it can seem intimidating, irrelevant, boring, or even offensive.
Yet, explored from a sophisticated, adult perspective, rather than through a literal understanding or children’s Torah stories, the Torah can be a rich source of wisdom for grappling with today’s real-life issues: ethics, family, work, politics, money, justice...
Join us in exploring the Torah and relevant commentaries in an open environment in this twice-monthly class led by Rabbi Ruth Adar (bio below). Each session focuses on a specific portion of the text and issues it addresses.
Newcomers of all ages and backgrounds are always welcome. No experience with Torah or knowledge of Hebrew is necessary. You don't need to be Jewish to draw on Jewish wisdom. We recommend registering in advance to receive the reading materials from Rabbi Ruth.
How To Join: The next series begins in fall 2025. We meet online twice a month on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month, 7:00-9:00 pm PT. View our meeting dates below. Come to one session, a few, or the entire series. Contact Rabbi Ruth Adar to learn more.
Register for the Series or Individual Sessions: We offer three registration options:
1) Annual Registration: Register for the year at $475, which offers a $50 discount compared to registering for individual sessions. Annual registration closes on November 12, 2025.
2) Installment Plan: Split the annual fee of $475 into two payments: half at registration and half in April. Installment plan registration closes on November 12, 2025.
3) Individual Classes: Register for individual sessions at $35 each.
Payments can be made through our online registration page or by check. Please make sure to register online regardless of your chosen payment method.
If you are registering for sessions one at a time, be sure to do so ahead of time so Rabbi Ruth can send you the materials.
Torah for Everyone Dates
November 12, 2025
December 10, 2025
January 14, 2026
January 28, 2026
February 11, 2026
February 25, 2026
March 11, 2026
March 25, 2026
April 8, 2026
April 22, 2026
May 13, 2026
May 27, 2026
June 10, 2026
Rabbi Ruth Adar understands Judaism as not simply a religion: it is a culture, indeed, a civilization, and there are many ways to approach it. Whether you are born Jewish, feel Jew-ish, love someone Jewish, have a Jewish ancestor, or are just curious about Judaism, all are welcome to explore Jewish life and community with her.
Rabbi Ruth holds an M.A. in Religious Studies from the University of Chicago and was ordained by Hebrew Union College in Los Angeles. She leads Jewish Gateways' weekly online Shabbat gatherings and has taught popular classes on Jewish topics at Jewish Gateways and elsewhere. She lives in San Leandro with her wife Linda.
