Judaic Studies

The thematic nature of the Judaic Studies curriculum naturally leads to the integration of all aspects of Jewish Studies—regardless of language of instruction—into one coherent whole. It sets up the opportunity to link the study of Judaica with general studies. The curriculum focuses on Jewish living, Hebrew literature and language, classical texts, Bible studies, Jewish history, the land of Israel, Hebrew literature language, Mishna, Midrash and Talmud, and Yiddish literature and language. It is through Judaic Studies that the students hone their Jewish identity.

Jewish History

The aim of the program is to present the students with a survey of Jewish history from the time of the Judges to the present, within a general historical content. The program is arranged chronologically. The students become familiar with the chronicles of the Jewish people, Israel’s birth as a nation, the Depression, life in the Diaspora, and the development of Jewish communities. In the senior years (Sec. III–V) particular emphasis is placed on the struggle for Emancipation, the Holocaust, Zionism, the State of Israel, and the history of Jews in Canada. Learning is enhanced with guest speeches, films, and trips.

Tanach—Bible Studies

The Bible occupies a central place in the overall curriculum of our educational system and is recognized as the “Sefer Hasefarim,” “The Book of Books.” It is seen to be one of the main pillars of our culture as well as that of world culture. The students are given an overview of the Bible and are exposed to its three central divisions—Torah, Neviim (prophets) and Ketuvim (scriptures). The unique ideological and pedagogic approach to Bible study in our school system implies the gradual but constant application of the historical method in the teaching of Biblical and post-Biblical sources of interpretation. It aims towards the development of the students’ strong commitment to, and identity with, the moral, social, and spiritual values of the Jewish people.

Jewish Life

Jewish Life is a program of Jewish heritage studies that deals with all aspects of our culture and religion. The focus of the program is on customs and ceremonies, life cycle, family, school, synagogue, religious movements, national continuity, social justice, and values within the context of our Jewish traditions. We acquaint students with the commonality of
Ashkenazi and Sephardic traditions. Guest lectures with expertise in particular subjects are invited to speak in the language of their choice.