New B’nai Sholom Course Considers the Bible as Literature

A new course at B’nai Sholom Reform Congregation will look at the Bible as a work of literature.

“The Bible as Literature” will be offered over eight Mondays beginning September 8 at 7:30 p.m. at B’nai Sholom Reform Congregation, 420 Whitehall Road, Albany, New York.

The class will examine portions of the Bible that illuminate the human experience, analyzed through the critical lens of contemporary literary interpretation. Participants will consider Biblical examples of stories with heroes, comedy and tragedy, and lyric poetry. The course will culminate in conversation about some unifying themes.

The course will be taught by B’nai Sholom congregant Francine Berg. Berg taught English literature in the Albany and Rensselaer school systems for 35 years, where she received multiple awards for her teaching and acclaim from her students. Berg holds a master’s degree in English literature from the University at Albany and a bachelor’s degree from Brooklyn College.

“The Bible as Literature” is open to the public. Registration for the eight-week course is required. Cost is $60; for B’nai Sholom members, it’s just $40.

For more information or to register for this course, contact the B’nai Sholom office at 518-482-5283 or e-mail office@bnaisholom.albany.ny.us.

B’nai Sholom Reform Congregation in Albany is a home for contemporary Reform Judaism in the Capital Region, creating a vibrant Jewish present that links ancient traditions with the promise of the future. More than 120 diverse households from six counties seek religious, educational and social fulfillment at B’nai Sholom.