Highlights
- Understand the nature of mystical experience and the unique approach of Kabbalah and Hasidism.
- Study Jewish texts, both ancient and modern, that seek to understand the nature of spirituality.
- Meet living teachers of the Jewish esoteric tradition, who are developing new philosophies and practices.
For centuries, the Jewish mystical tradition was a highly guarded, orally transmitted body of knowledge. Today, Kabbalah is everywhere, from the internet, to Hollywood, to popular charms and amulets. This course presents both an introduction to the basic principles of Jewish mysticism, as well as the way in which Kabbalah and Jewish spirituality has entered diverse forms of contemporary spirituality, new-age thought, religious cross-fertilization, art, cinema, and even politics.
The course will examine how thinkers across the entire range of Jewish experience have drawn upon Kabbalistic ideas to enrich the spirituality of their adherents. Primary texts will be read and discussed (Hebrew texts in translation) and guest speakers will be invited regularly, providing students with a unique opportunity to meet leading spirituality thinkers in Israel and around the world.
Structure
The classes will take place on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays for three hours per day.
Course Components
- Class readings and discussions
- Readings from both academic and primary Jewish texts.
- Final exam
See July Session summer schedule below.
You’ll be invited to participate in a wide array of trips, tours, and activities offered by the Office of Student Life. From a tour of the Old City to a trip to the Dead Sea to checking out the local festivals, you’ll build your own unique impressions and memories of Jerusalem and Israel. While residing in HebrewU dormitories with other international and Israeli students, you’ll have a chance to form new friendships and get involved in campus life. A team of multilingual Israeli students, called madrichim, is also there to help you adjust to your new surroundings and give you tips on things to do. Learn more about student life at HebrewU.
Application Fee: US $120
Course Tuition: US$ 1980
Housing: US$ 850*
* Depending on availability
Learn more about fees and paying for the program.
Scholarships
A limited number of scholarships based on demonstrated need or merit are available.
Students who complete their application to this program by February 16, 2025 and who also complete payment by March 16, 2025, will be eligible for a 10% early bird discount on the program tuition. In the event that a student applies for more than one summer course, the 10% early bird discount will be applied to one of the summer.
This course is open to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as to mature learners with an academic background. You must be currently registered at or have been accepted to a recognized college or university or have successfully completed at least one year of study at an accredited institution of higher education. English-language fluency is also required.
Apply
We’re pleased you’re applying to join us in Jerusalem. See our application guidelines to learn more. Apply online now!
Please note:
- Students may change their selection of summer course(s) from the July Session up until five days before the July Session begins.
- The maximum recommended course load for the July Session is two courses.
- Students applying for the July Session may also apply for one of the courses offered in the August Session. View the August Session courses here.
- See here for more information about visas.
- Students who complete their application to this program by February 16, 2025 and who also complete payment by March 16, 2025, will be eligible for a 10% early bird discount on the program tuition. In the event that a student applies for more than one summer course, the 10% early bird discount will be applied to one of the summer courses only.
Look here for the 2025 Summer Courses Schedule:
Contact
We’re happy to answer any questions you might have – or to chat for a bit to help you choose the right course or program.
Email Us
Call us: +972 2 588 2602
Find More Summer Courses
Please note that HebrewU reserves the right to cancel courses for which there is insufficient registration.
Fast Facts
Course:
Jewish Spirituality and Mysticism in the 21st Century (SPJT205/48892)
Teaching Faculty:
Language of Instruction:
English
Credits/Hours:
Academic hours: 45
Credits: 3
Course Dates:
June 30 – July 24, 2025
Eligibility:
Undergraduate and graduate students; mature learners with an academic background
Application Deadline:
April 15, 2025
Costs:
Application fee: US$ 120
Course Tuition: US$ 1980
Housing: US$ 850*
* Depending on availability
Relevant Academic Fields:
Religious studies, cultural studies, philosophy, Jewish Studies
