Community Outreach

"Alma offers Hebrew Cultural studies and a new way of addressing the topic of Jewish-Israeli identity. We invite the community; groups, companies and organizations for a unique study experience, day-long seminars, tours and events for special dates on the Jewish calendar.

Studies can address a wide range of issues relating to the broad offerings of Hebrew and Jewish culture. Topics can include: Bible, Mishnah, Talmud, Jewish mysticism (including Kabbalah and Hassidic texts), liturgical poetry, Jewish Philosophy (from the Middle Ages to the present) and modern Literature – Jewish, Hebrew, as well as Israeli. Interwoven into Alma’s study programs are key aspects of World Culture – Literature, History, Philosophy and History of the Arts.

Alma defines Hebrew Culture as the meeting point between Jewish culture, Israeli culture and general culture.
Alma’s spirit is based on the thinking of Chaim Nachman Bialik who said

"...The culture in the land of Israel uses all our old vessels, which are still intact and capable to contain the precious liquid. But we are also creating new vessels..."

In this view, the term "culture" is wide and comprehensive, and is based on the great books of our own culture as well as the culture of the broader world.
The uniqueness of Alma is the study of texts from many cultural sources, whether they traditional or contemporary. Our studies are based on learning in "chevruta" – small groups which cooperate and interpret texts together.
Alma is flexible and innovative, renewing its seminars and lectures all the time. Our program can be tailored to the unique needs of each group.