From Shepherd to King: David in Bible and Midrash

King David is one of the Bible’s most complex and compelling figures. Through selected passages from the Book of Samuel, the Talmud, and the Midrash, we will explore key moments in his life: his friendship with Jonathan, marriage to Avigail, rise to power, conquest of Jerusalem, the Bat Sheva episode, the tragedies of Amnon and Tamar, Avshalom’s rebellion, and the struggle over his succession. Combining literary analysis, historical context, and discussion, this course revisits these enduring stories and the questions they raise about leadership, power, family, and moral responsibility. Vernon Kurtz received Rabbinic Ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry degree from the Chicago Theological Seminary. Rabbi Emeritus of North Suburban Synagogue Beth El in Highland Park, Illinois, which he served for 31 years, Rabbi Kurtz is Adjunct Professor of Rabbinics at the Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership. The author of Encountering Torah: Reflections on the Weekly Portion, Rabbi Kurtz has published articles in periodicals, books and the Chicago Jewish News. (image King David with Harp by Master of Jean de Mandeville, 1360-70 via wikicommons media) Tuition: ILS 650 ($215*) for 10 classes *dollar price dependent upon exchange rate on date of payment 10% discount price for simultaneous registration for 2 series or more 15% discount price for simultaneous registration for 3 series or more. Cancellation Policy: Prior to start of course – 100% refund or 100% credit for another course. Following one class – 90% refund or 100% credit for another course (except for fieldtrip courses where only a 75% refund will be given after one meeting). No cancellation after 2 classes (in special cases, e.g. illness, a credit will be given for another course). The weekly zoom link will be sent via email to all registered students one week before the start of classes.