CCAR RESPONSA
New American Reform Responsa
58. Jewish Studies on a Shabbat Afternoon
QUESTION: A university would like to offer a college course for credit on shabbat afternoon in the Temple. A course given at this time will enable the largest number of students to fit a program of Jewish studies into their curriculum. In order to satisfy the college requirements, such a course would have to meet regularly and have scheduled exams. Is it appropriate to provide such a course in the synagogue? (Sylvia Nelson, Los Angeles CA)ANSWER: The study of the Torah has always been considered more important than anything else (M Peah 1.1). Much of the Mishnaic tractate Pirqei Avot dealt with the significance of study and the need to engage in it constantly. Study has, of course, been a traditional part of shabbat. In order to assure at least some study by all individuals, the Torah reading on shabbat morning and afternoon along with the Haftorah and sermon are designed to provide for universal study. Shabbat provides study opportunities during the morning and afternoon services as well as the third meal (Seudah Shelishit; Shab 117b; Tur and Shulhan Arukh Orah Hayim 291). This meal is frequently accompanied by scholarly dissertations. In some traditions the Mishnah is studied on shabbat afternoon and groups (hevrot) are organized for this purpose. Regular study in a communal form is very much part of shabbat. We must, however, ask about the format of a university course with the trappings of the weekday routine. The course will have quizzes, examinations, and the other requirements of the university. These are alien to the spirit of shabbat which inculcates a reverence for learning, but also the pleasure of learning. This course will be appropriate if conducted in the right spirit. The instructor must provide the shabbat course with joy and the proper mood. Under those conditions such a course would be desirable. Examinations must be scheduled for another day as they certainly are not in the spirit of shabbat. A course planned to accommodate these considerations would be acceptable.February 1990
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