Holy Places in the Holy Land: Conflict or Co-existence?

The course will focus on the contested holy places as symbolic assets in Israel and Palestine compared to case studies from other places in the world. Among the case studies to be analyzed: The Temple Mount/Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, The Western Wall, Struggle in Nazareth, Tomb of Rachel, Grand Mosque of Beersheba, Mamilla Cemetery in Jerusalem, Tomb of the Prophet Samuel. Three study tours to major contested sacred sites.

How shall we prevent the outbreak of strife at shared holy places and how shall we resolve conflicts in such a complex and delicate sites? Three study tours will provide information for class discussions.

Structure

The course is made up by 8 class meetings of 3 hours each (with a break) , in which the instructor will open with a lecture to be followed by a 10-20 minutes video clip and a discussion on conflict resolution methods. Three study tours to major conflictual sacred sites will enrich the practical knowledge.

Course Components

The course includes 8 class lectures/discussions, 3 study tours at holy sites and 8 video films. (3 meetings or tours a week Mon.-Wed.) 

View the syllabus

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.

Apply by: April 15, 2023

Arrive on campus: July 3, 2023

Program length: Four weeks

For payment deadlines, see here.

Application fee: US$ 120
Course Tuition: US$ 1,890
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 summer course application by February 15, 2023, and who also complete payment by March 15, 2023, will be eligible for a 10% early bird discount on the course 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.

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.