Beit Avi Chai presents "Otmuna," a lecture series on Art and Torah in the beit midrash. The subject of this series is "Names."
What is the significance of our given name? Where does it come from and where does it take us? In a series of encounters with Jewish texts and works of art, we will learn the origins of names, the stories behind the names, both common and unique ones, and the ways in which they have been used by philosophers and artists.
Rabbi Tamar Duvdevani (lecturer in rabbinic literature) and Ela Arazi (lecturer in art) explain ancient texts and works of art in study groups. A unique beit midrash experience featuring study, observation, and innovation in ancient words and new works.
Part 1: "And His Name Shall Be Called in Israel"
Names carry with them multiple meanings: they hint at the children's lineage, predict their future, and say something about the circumstances of their birth and their parents' hopes or troubles. In this session we look at names that have stories behind them in the Bible, rabbinic literature, and art, such as Jacob, Zadok, and Dina.
Monday, February 1, 7:30 PM
Part 2: "A Monument and a Name"
Some names-such as Avichai, Bat-Ami, or Etziona-bear the weight of generations past: grandparents who have passed away or places that have been destroyed. How does a name perpetuate one's heritage, and how does it influence the person who bears the name? In this session we deal with names that serve as memorials and examine their significance.
Monday, February 8, 7:30 PM
Part 3: Names and Descriptions
At times a name gives us security, like a warm coat on a cold day; at other times it weights us down and causes pain. This category includes names like Rachel, Isaac, or Tamar. What can we learn about the function of names in our lives? In this session we deal with burdensome names and see how their owners cope with them.
Monday, February 15, 7:30 PM
Part 4: A Temporary Name
Some people do not give in to their fate. They change their names in order to change their luck or identity. Avram became Avraham, Alina was Hebraicized to Ilana, and Joyce was translated into Simcha. In this session we look at names that were changed and at the people who chose to change them.
Monday, February 22, 7:30 PM
This is a Hebrew-language only event.
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