"Hostages in Jewish History" Class

Over the last 18 months, Jews worldwide were torn about the hostages held in Gaza. What is the correct approach? Should we be giving up everything for the return of the hostages? Is there a line we dont cross? What about the safety concern when terrorists are released in exchange?

You may be surprised to learn that Jewish scholars have - on more than one occasion - had to wrestle with similar scenarios.

As part of our ongoing JLI course Colorful Profiles, we’ve been exploring the stories of remarkable figures.

For our final lesson titled "Heroes and Hostages," we’ll explore:

1. Four rabbis captured by 10th-century pirates.
2. Germany’s foremost Jewish leader who was held for ransom. 
3. Thousands of Eastern European Jews trapped in Ottoman slave markets.

We’ll ask:
- How did Jewish communities respond?
- What can we learn that speaks to the hostage crisis today?

This final class is open to the community.
This coming Wednesday, May 28, 7:30-9:00pm.
Even if you haven’t joined the earlier classes, you’re warmly invited to this powerful and timely conversation.