The Pardes Elul Program (September)" /> The Pardes Elul Program (September) | Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies

The Pardes Elul Program (September)

Embark on a Transformative Journey: Prepare for the High Holidays with Jewish Text Study in Jerusalem.

As the Jewish calendar approaches the holiest days of the year, Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, the Hebrew month of Elul is traditionally observed through study and introspection.

The Pardes Elul Program embraces the concept of Elul as a month of Torah study and transformation, inviting short-term participants to join us in the Pardes Beit Midrash. 

During the month of Elul, program participants join Year Program students at the beginning of their year of Jewish text study. Elul students participate in daily classes, many of which explore various themes relevant to the upcoming Jewish holidays, including Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah.

Through a combination of traditional havruta (paired) study and seminar-style classes, full-time and part-time Elul students will gain in-depth understanding, practical knowledge, and inspiration. The knowledge and experience gained during the Elul Program will enhance their personal celebration of these holidays for years to come.

2023 / 5783 Schedule

September 3 - September 28, 2023
Daily Classes: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Download the Fall class schedule. 
(1:15 PM classes will be replaced with unique preparatory seminars for the High Holidays.)

2023 / 5783 Schedule

September 3 - September 28, 2023
Daily Classes: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Download the Fall class schedule. 
(1:15 PM classes will be replaced with unique preparatory seminars for the High Holidays.)

Apply Now!

Program Details

Beyond the classroom and beit midrash, Elul in Jerusalem provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rhythm of the Jewish calendar in meaningful and memorable ways. Imagine:

  • hearing daily shofar blasts emerge from morning prayers on every corner
  • selecting the perfect pomegranate in the shuk (or on your neighbor’s tree!)
  • visiting a bustling “4 species market” to learn about or shop for a lulav and etrog
  • experiencing musical selichot services drawing on multiple Jewish ethnic traditions

In addition to exploring the above with the Pardes community, you’ll have the chance to make the most of incredible museums and galleries, proximity to the Old City, and an abundance and variety of cultural, ritual and prayer opportunities. There’s no place like it in the world!

Please visit our Student Life page to learn more.

Housing

Pardes does not provide housing. Students at Pardes typically rent apartments throughout Jerusalem. For assistance in finding housing, please visit our Housing Help Resource page.

Participants of the Elul program join Year Program students in their regular Jewish text study courses.

During the month of Elul, the 1:15 PM classes are replaced with unique preparatory seminars focusing on the Jewish High Holidays. 

View the weekly schedule of courses here.

Read our course descriptions here.

  • B.A. from an accredited institution
  • Basic Hebrew reading skills or higher.
  • A reference from someone familiar with the applicant’s study skills and/or Jewish commitment as well as personal character.
    Click here for the Recommendation Form.
    Typical recommenders include:
      • Supervisors
      • Professors
      • Rabbis
      • Professionals at Jewish or other organizations with which you have been involved.
      • Please do not submit recommendations from personal friends or relatives.

Tuition for the Elul Program: $350
Discounted tuition for Israeli citizens: 590nis.
Financial aid is not available for this program.

The Elul Program is free for alumni of the following programs:

  • The Year / Semester Program and Fellowships
  • Pardes Center for Jewish Educators Programs (PEP, PEEP, and PTF)
  • Kollel

A 25% discount is available for alumni of the following programs:

  • Awakening the Divine Spirituality Retreat
  • Winter Learning Intensive
  • Hourly Program
  • Summer Program

Please contact:

“I feel so blessed to have been able to spend time at Pardes – even just for Elul (although I'll definitely be back...!). From opening the Tanakh in the Beit Midrash to speaking to incredible educators who are not afraid to answer any question, I feel so enriched and empowered to be a Jew in 2022. Thank you, Pardes - your energy has given me more energy!”
Hannah Moshinsky, Australia
Elul 2022
Shape Your Year With Intention: Apply Now for the Elul Program!