The evening begins with Erev Shavuot worship at 7:30 p.m., immediately followed by a dairy-based nosh and social period. Dr. Panken will offer his keynote address at 9 p.m.: "How True is True? True Lies, Alternative Truths and the Value of Veracity in Jewish Law." Then at 10 and 11 pm, clergy and lay-leaders of our congregations will offer a variety of 1-hour learning sessions. At midnight we will gather to hear the chanting of Aseret Ha-Dibbrot (The Ten Commandments), and the Tikkun will conclude with Dr. Panken offering a final session entitled: "Seek Peace and Pursue It."

 

 

In addition to the many remarkable learning opportunities, the Tikkun will offer sessions for elementary age children at 7:30 pm and for teens beginning at 10 pm.

 

Below are descriptions of Dr. Panken's two presentations:

 

Jewish texts have clearly privileged speaking the truth over propagating false information, with certain fascinating exceptions. There are definite examples where the truth must be shaped or altered in its presentation for various reasons. Philosophical texts, likewise, sometimes require lies when the truth may cause certain or potential damage. This session will explore a few of the core texts that define this conundrum in Jewish thought, along with a few philosophical responses, sketching the boundaries of shaping the truth and providing guidance for reacting to untruths we encounter. It is not entirely impossible that this discussion will be relevant to contemporary politics and situations that take place in community settings.

 

Jewish tradition holds as one of its highest ideals the making of peace between parties who disagree. In a world that is profoundly more divided and polarized than in the recent past, how should Jewish people of good intention act in the world to make peace between the various parties they encounter? In this late-night shiur, we will explore the surprisingly relevant guidance offered by biblical and rabbinic texts for making peace in difficult situations.

 

You are invited to join us for part or the entirety of the Tikkun. The evening is free and open to the public.

 

Temple Ner Tamid is located at 936 Broad Street in Bloomfield, New Jersey.