Not long ago, some Jewish women who wanted to study biblical and talmudic texts had to do so in secret, behind closed doors (a la Yentl). But now, it’s the ’60s – the 5760s, that is – and the secret is out: Women’s study is hardly a radical new idea. Thanks – in part – to the Orthodox Union (OU)’s Torah Seminars for Women, the doors for serious scholarship are wide open.

In its second year, the Torah Seminars for Women program has expanded
to offer a choice of class days, times and locations. Beginning in mid-October, women may attend the 12-week seminars on Sunday mornings, or on Monday or Wednesday evenings. Classes are held at three metropolitan area synagogues: two in Manhattan (The West Side Institutional Synagogue on West 76^th Street and Congregation Adereth El on East 29^th Street) and one in the Five Towns area (Congregation Kneseth Israel in Far Rockaway). This season, students can choose from a wide variety of intriguing classes. They can delve into the biblical texts of Genesis, Proverbs or Samuel; read Rambam’s (Maimonides) classic work, Sefer Hamitzvot (Book of Precepts); analyze the modern day applications of Birchot Hanehenin (blessings of enjoyment); or consider the ramifications of halacha (Jewish Law) regarding medical ethics.

The courses, geared toward women with strong Judaic studies backgrounds, are taught by an outstanding cadre of scholars including Roshei Yeshivot (deans) at Yeshiva University Rabbi Herschel Schachter and Rabbi Mayer Twersky, as well as eminent scholars in the fields of bible, history, philosophy and psychology. "In today’s world, Torah study is crucial for both men and women to internalize faith and achieve enduring religious enthusiasm. The OU Torah Seminars For Women broadens the opportunity for women to explore the intricacies of Torah and Jewish law with some of the most exceptional Torah scholars in our community," said Rabbi Raphael B. Butler, Executive Vice President of the OU.

Tuition is $100 per course; $75 for three or more courses. Torah Seminars for Women is funded in part by the Avi Chai Foundation. To view the complete schedule of classes, or for more information, please visit the OU on the internet at www.ou.org and select womenlearn! or call (212) 613-8300.