This period is full of polarization and disputes. But is there another way?

In a series of lectures, three acclaimed experts will present new ways to see our reality on three levels: mind, faith and national narratives.

This can open our eyes to new ways to see and respond to the challenges in this period, to possible causes of separation, as well as opportunities for unity and mutual responsibility.

This series is organized by Nyingma Group Israel.

The lectures:

Title: “Do we build bridges or grant presence?” by Jack Petranker on 15th September 2024 at 19:00-20:00 Israel time

Short description

We often speak of building bridges to those we disagree with. The image suggests that both sides hold to their positions, but find ways to meet in the middle. In this talk, I will suggest a different model: granting presence. When we grant presence to the other, we accept that they are living a story that lets them make sense of the world, just as we are. By granting them presence, we create the possibility that our two stories can become one story.

About Jack: 

Jack has been a close student of Tarthang Tulku the founder of the Nyingma Organization, for almost 50 years. Jack is the Director of the Mangalam Research Center for Buddhist Languages in Berkeley, founder, and Senior Teacher at the Center for Creative Inquiry, an educational organization that aims to encourage new ways of knowing and new forms of knowledge. Jack has been the editor of Tarthang Tulku's books in Time, Space, and Knowledge Vision among others.

Title: "From Separatism to Universalism in the Hebrew Bible" by Prof. Yair Zakovich on 22nd September 2024 at 19:00-20:00 Israel time

Short description:

In the Hebrew Bible, we find evidence of different eras in Israelite history. On the one hand, we hear the young, monotheistic revolution that had to separate itself from the surrounding polytheistic religions, in order to protect itself.  In separatism, dangers lurk: suspicion and ignorance of others. On the other hand, we find also later voices, from when the Israelite religion was already established and the Israelites were confident in their beliefs and identity; these voices called for openness and inclusiveness.  In this lecture, we will identify and examine both these voices.

About Yair: 

Yair Zakovitch is the Emeritus Father Takeji Otsuki Professor of Bible at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. He received the Israel Prize in Bible Scholarship in 2021. Among his many books are Jacob: Unexpected Patriarch (Jewish Lives, Yale University Press).

Title: "The Path for Reconciliation" by Yuval Roth

Short description:

Yuval regularly meets with students and groups to talk about the national narratives through his own experience. In this lecture, Yuval will share his journey and the impact he has been seeing on people who for the first time interact and meet with the "other side" in different ways. This helps to soften a bit of prejudice and fear on both sides and opens the hearts to new opportunities. 

About Yuval:

Yuval Roth joined the Parents’ Circle Family Forum (PCFF) (also known as Israeli Palestinian Bereaved Families for Reconciliation and Peace) following the abduction and murder of his brother Udi. In 1993 Hamas militants murdered Udi while on his way home from reserve duty in the Gaza Strip. A Palestinian member of the Forum asked Yuval to drive his brother to a hospital in Israel and he agreed, and it went on from there. Following this need Yuval founded the NGO "The Road to Recovery" with around 500 volunteers who drive 30-50 patients daily from the checkpoints to hospitals in Israel and back, even during the war in Gaza. 

General:

Early registration is requested at the link above. 

The recommended donation for this series of lectures is 180 NIS. Any other donation possible for you is appreciated.

Transfer can be made by bit, PayBox, or PayPal to Itzhak Preiss mobile +972-(0)587049170 email itzhakpreiss@gmail.com

In any questions or requests about the lectures please contact Itzhak from Nyingma Group Israel. 

Thank you for sharing this information. 

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