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A New Campus for the Yaacov Herzog Center for Jewish Studies
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"In Jewish tradition, edifices of study
are not merely physical structures
serving a spiritual function . . .
The building becomes part of the continuity of Judaism;
its heritage and destiny belong to the future."
Dr. Yaacov Herzog
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A library, auditorium and classrooms, surrounding a verdant plaza, together with the existing Yaacov Herzog Center for Jewish Studies, combine to create a new campus for a new era. Their design, by prominent Israeli architect Prof. Moshe Margalith, reflects the purpose of The Yaacov Herzog Center, which is to welcome Jews of all backgrounds under its roof and make Jewish study relevant to all.
"The proposed project attempts to unite Jewish studies, Torah knowledge, light and community amidst the local pastoral environs, in order to create a unique center for learning."
Prof. M. Margalith, Architect
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Site
The Herzog Center is located on Kibbutz Ein Tzurim in the Shafir Valley, just above Israel's northern Negev region and approximately 15 miles east of the coastal city of Ashkelon. The campus is situated among vineyards and fields in pastoral surroundings.
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Our Tradition: Twenty years of learning, listening and leadership in Israel
- The Yaacov Herzog Center for Jewish Studies was established by the Religious Kibbutz Movement in 1987 and honors the memory of Rabbi Dr. Yaacov Herzog, who dedicated his life to the service of the Jewish people and the state of Israel. The Center's building was made possible by the generosity of Mr. Derrick Kleeman, a close friend of the Herzog family.
- The Center is guided by the idea that Judaism should play a meaningful role in the life of every Jew. We believe that discourse based on the joint study of Jewish texts between people with diverse views leads to improved mutual understanding and increased tolerance. We are one of the few educational institutions under Orthodox auspices dedicated to authentic dialogue between secular and observant Jews and between Israel's different Jewish religious streams. Such dialogue brings to light the relevance of Judaism to the modern era.
- The many and varied educational offerings of The Yaacov Herzog Center deepen the attachment to Jewish culture and learning among Israeli and overseas students alike. The courses transmit knowledge through a special learning experience that strengthens Jewish identity and commitment to the Jewish people.
- Over 5,000 people, from high school students to senior adults, come to The Yaacov Herzog Center year round for classes, seminars, lectures, professional training and special events.
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Our Mission: To strengthen the unity of our people by engaging our common heritage in a spirit of inclusiveness, acceptance and tolerance
The population of Israel's southern region has grown dramatically over the last decade and a half. A large percentage of its newer residents are immigrants from the Former Soviet Union (FSU) who grew up with little or no Jewish education. Joining them are Jewish immigrants from Ethiopia whose history and traditions developed apart from the majority of the Jewish people. Other residents of this region, in spite of having been raised in Israel, are unfamiliar with much of their cultural and religious heritage; as adults they are seeking to recover the education that eluded them in their youth. Finally, the region is populated with well educated religious and secular residents of all ages with an ongoing thirst for Jewish knowledge and a love for Jewish culture.
The Yaacov Herzog Center for Jewish Studies is one of but a handful of post-secondary educational institutions serving Israel's south. Our mission is to provide outstanding Jewish educational and cultural activities to the wider community in an atmosphere of openness and tolerance. Our programs deepen the understanding and appreciation of Israelis for their own heritage, strengthen their identities both as Jews and as Israelis, enrich their lives, encourage community leadership and good citizenship, promote dialogue and pluralism, and build ties to Jews throughout the world.
Links to Mission and Program Areas
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