Dessert & Discuss: The Ethics of Human Creation
Schedule
Wed Dec 10 2025 at 07:00 pm to 08:00 pm
UTC-05:00Location
Jewish Peninsula | Newport News, VA
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Against All Better Judgement, God Created Humans:Examining an Ancient Rabbinic Midrash on the Ethics of Human Existence
In this evening of learning, we'll study two early rabbinic texts (Genesis Rabbah 8:4 & 8:5) that dramatize the Heavenly Court's debate over creating humanity. We'll witness the uproar, fury, disagreement, fear and hope as God contemplates this final creation.
We know the outcome—humans were created—but the rabbis remain conflicted. Was it the right decision? Do our merits justify our sins? Does our righteousness outweigh our wickedness? These stunning midrashic texts show the rabbis at their most boisterous and philosophical, asking the ultimate question: Humans came into being, but should we have?
This class will be taught by Dr. Samuel Kessler, Lyons Chair in Judaic Studies at VCU.
Passport Members - $5/person
Community Members - $10/person
RSVP HERE:
https://www.jewishpeninsula.org/community-calendar/dessert-discuss-the-ethics-of-human-creation
Questions? Email Sara Traster: [email protected]
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Where is it happening?
Jewish Peninsula, 2776 Spring Rd, Newport News, VA 23606-2514, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
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