Prayer in Translation: Lecha Dodi (In Person)

In this three-part series, we’ll take a deep dive into one of the cornerstones of the Kabbalat Shabbat service, Lecha Dodi. Using the original Hebrew as our base (no prior knowledge of Hebrew required!), we’ll explore what it means to translate a text from its original language. By comparing translations of this 16th century poem from various streams of Judaism—including Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox—we’ll develop a deeper appreciation for Lecha Dodi, the Kabbalat Shabbat liturgy, and what it means to translate sacred texts. You will also have the opportunity to create your own translation of parts of Lecha Dodi as a spiritual practice.

This course follows a sequential structure, and participants are encouraged to attend all sessions. However, drop-ins are welcome at any point during the course. If you have any questions regarding participation, please contact the program leader.

About the teacher: Dr. Christopher Doty has a PhD in linguistics, and has spent years working with and teaching texts in other languages. His dissertation examined the relationship of Miluk Coos—an indigenous language spoken where he grew up on the Oregon Coast—to other languages in the Pacific Northwest. He currently serves as TBE’s communications manager.

Registration: This event is available in person. Please click the purple bar above to register.

This event is part of Summer Institute; please click here to view other adult learning opportunities this summer. We are deeply grateful to the family of Burton D. “Bud” Rose, M.D., who has underwritten the Summer Institute in loving memory of Bud, who was a lifelong teacher and student.