About Global Day FAQs
What is the Global Day of Jewish Learning? When is it?
On November 13, 2011, Jews all around the world will come together in their communities, homes, and online to celebrate our shared heritage. To be Jewish is to think, to study, and to learn, so that’s how we’ll celebrate! On the Global Day of Jewish Learning, Jews everywhere will focus their attention to our shared Jewish texts to glean, wisdom, questions, and a sense of being part of one people.
What is the theme of this year’s Global Day of Jewish Learning?
This year’s theme is the unity of the Jewish people, as seen through the Shema prayer. In the words of Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz, “for the Jewish people, the Shema is a call, a slogan, a sign of identification and an expression of great emotions. It is a declaration of bond, principles and identity.” A set of thought-provoking curriculum centered around this theme is available to registered communities.
Why participate in the Global Day of Jewish Learning?
The Global Day of Jewish Learning is an opportunity for Jews around the world to unite and share in an historic day of learning and community building. Through participation in the Global Day of Jewish Learning, your community can benefit in many ways:
- Uniting your entire community, regardless of affiliation;
- Partnering with local day schools, synagogues and other local agencies;
- Promoting Jewish education and empowering local educators;
- Using the event as a launching pad for your own community initiatives;
- Including your community in a worldwide, groundbreaking event.
Learning that Scarlett Johanssen is Jewish is as close as I’ve come to Jewish study since my Bar Mitzvah. Why should I participate in the Global Day of Jewish Learning?
Because it would make your Bubbe happy! And because you might be surprised how meaningful even just a little bit of learning and thinking about our shared texts can be. The plans for the day don’t require you to break out your old Hebrew School workbooks or remember any Hebrew. Just sign up to join your community or host an event.
Who is Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz?
Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz is one of the Jewish people’s greatest champions for open access to Jewish learning. In 1965, guided by the principle that even the most esoteric texts should be made accessible to all Jewish people, Rabbi Steinsaltz undertook the monumental task of translating and elucidating the Talmud’s many thousands of folios.
In 2010, the Global Day of Jewish Learning was conceived to mark the completion of Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz’s 45 year quest of completing his translation and commentary of the Talmud. In 2011, we continue the Global Day as a way to celebrate the unity of the Jewish people through our sacred Jewish text.
Is the Global Day for all Jews?
Yes, the Global Day is for all Jews regardless of learning background or religious affiliation. The classes for the Global Day have been created specifically for all audiences; no prior knowledge of Hebrew or Jewish text is necessary in order to participate in the Global Day.
How can I participate in the Global Day of Jewish Learning?
There are many ways you can participate in the Global Day of Jewish Learning –
- You can organize a community event. Click here to register your event.
- If there is already an event in your community, you can assist in the planning process.
- Attend a local Global Day event. Click here to view a listing of events.
How can I register my community?
Click here to register for the Global Day of Jewish Learning.
How can I participate in a Global Day event in my community?
Individual registration for Global Day community events will be available in the Summer 2011. Click here to receive periodic updates about the Global Day and events in your community, including an announcement when registration is available.
I’m excited and I want to learn now!
Great! Participate every week in discussion on a “Big Question” – big, hairy, important topics that matter in our lives and for which Jewish tradition may be of some help in answering. Click here to learn more about the Big Questions and join the conversation.
How can I receive information about the Global Day and its activities?
To receive more information about the Global Day click here. In addition, if you have any questions please feel free to contact us and we would be happy to assist. You can find our contact info here.
Is my Federation, JCC or synagogue signed up to host a Global Day event?
Click here to search for events in your community.
I don’t want to attend an event or there isn’t one in my community. Can I still participate?
Of course! You can host your own get-together or learn online. Pledge to participate and we’ll keep you informed as we develop our online learning programs, and/or host your own get-together – click here to register.
I believe in the ideals of the Global Day and want to support it. How do I designate a contribution?
Thank you! Click here to make a secure donation on-line.
If you prefer to make a donation via the mail, you can mail your donation to:
The Global Day of Jewish Learning
Aleph Society
25 West 45th Street, Suite 1405
New York, NY 10036
The check should be made out to “Aleph Society.”
You can also make your donation over the phone by calling Sharon at 212-840-1166.
Your contribution will be tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
