DIMENSIONS OF FREEDOM

Why does Purim always fall on the full moon before the full moon of Pesach? What is the journey of healing and transformation offered by these two festivals, and this entire portion of our calendar? In this course, we will explore together some of the deeper psychological and spiritual themes of Purim and Pesach, in text and practice. We will both learn about and experience this powerful opportunity for renewal and liberation. In our seven sessions together, we will explore teachings and experience embodied practices on: Cultivating Safety and Equanimity – Simchah, usually translated as joy, is a key theme of Purim, and can also be understood as an inner safety and freedom in the face of life's challenges Not-knowing (Ad Delo Yada) – Liberating ourselves from false certainty and limiting stories or beliefs, opening to wonder and connection Awareness or Consciousness (Da'at) – Developing awareness and self-awareness that help us to make freer, wiser choices for ourselves and the world Intergenerational Healing (both within ourselves and with others) – Loving and integrating our inner child and other parts, and repairing interpersonal relationships Mastering Time – Co-creating our calendar, our reality and our contributions to life Creating a New Narrative – Empowering ourselves to write and live a new story, for ourselves, our people and all life. This course is open to novices and advanced learners of all backgrounds and levels. All texts will be provided with clear line-by-line translations, and no prior knowledge or experience with the subject matter is necessary. How does it work? This course is an 7-class journey. The classes are recorded and participants can watch to the recordings of the classes at any time they like. ​ Each class includes: 1) A printable handout of Jewish textual sources, provided in full translation with introductory comments and guiding questions.​ 2) A recorded class, in which Rabbi Daniel provides background information, explanation, close reading, critical analysis and practical ideas for applying the teachings in our day-to-day lives. ​ 3) Prompts for silent reflection, creative writing, drawing, or whichever other practices are helpful for you, to explore meaningful questions about the above-mentioned themes. Testimonials "The Purim to Pesach program made such a material difference to my connection to and experience of both festivals. I so appreciated this opportunity to really tap into the pulse of possibility that runs through our calendar cycle. All in all, the Dimensions of Freedom course was both a discovery and a delight." - Chana-Toni Whitmont "My numerous experiences studying with Rav Daniel have given me immense benefits both immediately and in the long-term. When learning with Rav Daniel, I feel the inner peace and joy that comes with learning from a teacher who is scholarly, spiritual, and down-to-earth. I have also gleaned extremely useful tools in learning how to approach Jewish texts and tradition and how to bring meditative spiritual practice into my life, all in a loving and open-minded way. Thank you so much." - Shira Sacks ​ "Learning with Rav Daniel is a wonderful experience. In his classes he brings an extraordinary range of texts from our tradition and makes them meaningful for our lives today. His deep personal integrity, wisdom and spirituality constantly inspire me to walk the Jewish spiritual path and help me with my own awakening and development." - Rabbi Danny Newman, Founder & Director, HaMakom