An Exploration of the Moral, Ethical, and Religious Challenges Facing the Israeli Defense Forces.

The purpose of this course is to develop an understanding about the Jewish textual tradition views on war, combat, and the moral and ethical dilemmas that come about therein. Through using IDF operations as case studies, learners will have the opportunity to discuss and debate the moral and ethical questions that arise in the context of the wars in which the State of Israel, the only Jewish and democratic state in the world, is engaged. Further, learners will deepen their understanding of war and combat as taught in the Jewish textual tradition.

A brief summary of each session is listed below and the content compounds so we encourage you to make all four sessions. Those who do attend all four sessions will receive a special gift at the siyyum, the conclusion of study.

Session 1: Just War Theory and the purpose of the military and rules of war

Session 2: Jewish Textual Tradition: Milchemet Mitzvah and Milchemet Hareshut (Commanded and Discretionary Wars)

Session 3: A Jewish State with a Standing Army

Session 4: Combating Terrorism and Unconventional Warfare in light of the October 7th Attack