Name: Judaism Confronts War: Ethics, History and the Dilemmas of Power
Start: 2025-10-21T10:00:00-04:00
End: 2025-10-21T10:45:00-04:00
Location: Jewish Peninsula

Judaism Confronts War: Ethics, History and the Dilemmas of Power

When is it moral to fight a war? What does it mean to fight a war ethically? For two millennia, Jews grappled with these questions largely in theory, as a people without sovereignty or military power. The establishment of Israel fundamentally changed this reality, making ancient ethical debates urgently contemporary.
This class examines pivotal moments where ethics collide with geopolitical necessity, drawing from biblical wisdom, rabbinic thought and modern philosophy. Through case studies of historical crises and contemporary debates, we'll explore how Jewish ethical frameworks illuminate universal questions about war, peace and the burdens of power. Participants will engage with primary sources spanning millennia while wrestling with dilemmas that remain painfully relevant today.
Classes will be on Tuesdays:
Oct. 21, 28, Nov. 4, 11, 18
10-11am
No prior knowledge necessary. It is recommended, but not required, that participants attend all sessions.
Taught by Jewish Peninsula CEO Eric Maurer who holds a dual Masters in Jewish Professional Leadership and Near Eastern & Judaic Studies from Brandeis University.
RSVP HERE:
https://www.jewishpeninsula.org/community-calendar/judaism-confronts-war/2025-10-28_10:00:00
Questions? Email Eric Maurer: [email protected]