Sokol Hebrew High School 
Judaism and World Religions 
Mark Stadler
Fall 5768/History

 In today’s world our exposure to other cultures and pluralistic beliefs is constant.  Whether this occurs in the media, at school, at work or on vacation, we are learning that our world is full of people with beliefs that are very different from, and sometimes very similar to our own. 

In this course we will examine the principle tenets of our world’s major religions and their relationships to Judaism.  We will focus our studies on Christianity [in all of its manifestations] and Islam, as Jews have historically lived under these religions and have been most influenced by them.  Students will study the times and conditions under which these religions emerged.  We will explore their founders and history, their fundamental beliefs and practices and their worldviews.  We will discuss the differences within, as well as between, the faiths. 

In this course we will ask and attempt to answer the following essential questions:  

What are the major world religions:

• How did these religions begin and for what reasons.
•  How are they alike and how are they different?
•  How do they breed conflict in today’s world? 

•  How can they build toward peace?

 Throughout the process we will be comparing and contrasting to Judaism, looking at each religion’s relationship with Judaism along with treatment of Jews in the past and present. As we begin to understand how these religions are similar and different from Judaism, we will be exploring ways in which to dialogue with other faiths respectfully and intelligently. 

Jacob Nuesner writes, “religion defines some of the boundaries that make us unique.”  It is my ultimate goal for students in this class to gain a better understanding of who they are as Jews and of how they are perceived by others.  As our students continue to grow and prepare for the eventuality of College, they will be dealing with new relationships, confronting anti-Semitism, and making political choices.  I hope to expand their perspective by helping them to understand the peoples and religions of our world. 

 Source materials for this course will be primarily from handouts.  If you are interested, parents are welcome to ask their children to share with them the material and class discussions.  For further information about our topics you could research the Internet together.  I would also refer you to several excellent resource books in our synagogue library, including World Religions, edited by Jacob Neusner and Religions of the World, a compilation of several authors. 

In order for students to benefit from this class, they need to attend regularly, and to participate fully.