The Origins of the Nation Israel: Biblical, Historical, and Archaeological Data 

Part of our fall learning series, Zionism: Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond—Expanding the Conversation 

Monday, November 25, 2024 
1:00–2:00 p.m. ET
Online

With Dr. Benjamin D. Sommer, Professor of Bible and Ancient Semitic Languages, JTS

What can we learn from the Bible’s narratives about the emergence of the nation Israel? Some streams insist on the literal infallibility of biblical history, while others assert that the Jews are not indigenous to Canaan/Israel/Palestine.

Considering biblical texts and archaeological evidence, this session will examine the origin of the Israelites as an ethnic and political unit. How does the debate on biblical authority resonate both within and outside academic circles? 

This session is sponsored by Yale Asbell, JTS Trustee.

The Zoom link for all sessions in the Zionism: Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond—Expanding the Conversation series will be in the confirmation email that you receive after you register. 

About the Series

Mondays, November 11–December 16, 2024  
1:00–2:00 p.m. ET

What does it mean to be a Zionist in 21st-century North America? Expanding on conversations from our two-day convening “Zionism: Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond,” this webinar series will explore this and other questions, presenting significant insights and debate and enhancing the context that is informing contemporary issues. JTS faculty will highlight the political, religious, and philosophical perspectives that shape the current landscape for Jews in North America in relationship with Israel. 

View all sessions in the series

* Rabbi Jan Uhrbach’s December 9 session and Dr. Arnold M. Eisen’s December 16 session will meet at 7:30–8:30 p.m. ET.

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