Tastes, Text, and Tending the Garden: the Seven Species of Biblical Israel | Learning and Creative Lab (Summer Institute | In Person)

The Book of Deuteronomy mentions the seven species that the Land of Israel is blessed with: wheat,barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives and dates.
In this series we will study each one of the species in ancient and modern texts: from the Torah and midrash to modern Hebrew poetry and art. The study of each species raises topics such as finding balance, attending to both our physical and our spiritual needs, and what it means to live in a culture of excess.

Each day will include a morning study session and an afternoon “creative lab” exploration of the species through art, food, and more. Participants can sign up for just the text study, or both the text study and creative lab. Not able to attend every session? No problem! Reach out to Lynn Burke Harell and we will find a way for you to participate in as many sessions as possible!

Schedule:
Text Study 10:00–11:00 am
Break: 11:00–11:30 am
Creative Lab 11:30 am–1:30 pm

7/15 –  Wheat | Creative Lab: Cooking Pita on an Open Fire
7/16 –  Figs | Creative Lab: Ceramic Imprinting of Fig Leaves
7/17 – Pomegranates  | Creative Lab: Cooking Lesson with Guest Chef Elizabeth Navisky
7/22 –  Barley | Creative Lab: Found Object Assemblage with Guest Teacher Abi Oshins
7/23 – Olives | Creative Lab: Olive oil soap making with Guest Teacher Abi Oshins
7/24 –  Grapes/Vine | Creative Lab: Ceramics studio
7/30 – Dates | Creative Lab: Jewish Studio Process Style Experience with Guest Teacher Hannah Richman Kearney

This event is a part of Summer Institute 2025: Weaving Study, Making, and Meaning, a month of curated experiences, including learning, practice, and connection opportunities. Offerings include creative, experiential learning, off-site gatherings, and meaningful opportunities for learning and exploration. Engage at TBE, online and outside our walls, while building relationships with one another and TBE faculty! Click here to view a list of all Summer Institute programs.

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.