The Hebrew month of Elul leads up to the holiest days of the year – Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. Traditionally, this month is dedicated to study and introspection.
Elul students join Year Program students for the first few weeks of learning at Pardes. During these weeks, many of the classes are dedicated to themes relevant to the upcoming Jewish holidays in the month of Tishrei – Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and Shemini Atzeret/Simchat Torah. Students learn both through havruta (paired) study and in seminar-style classes, gaining understanding, practical knowledge and inspiration that enhance the celebration of these holidays for years to come.
The program is free for Pardes year program alumni with various discounts for participants of other Pardes programs.
Classes meet 9 am-5:30 pm, Sunday through Thursday. While most participants are full time, if you wish to attend as an hourly student (under 20 hours/week) or part time (20-29 hours per week), please inquire.
Classes are offered at multiple levels, from beginners to advanced, according to students’ Hebrew language skills and background in Jewish text study.
Elul participants are expected to have a basic reading knowledge of Hebrew or higher. While the new schedule is being prepared, please review the 2022 weekly schedule as a guide. Please note that the 1.15pm classes will be replaced with Pre -High Holy day seminars during Elul, and will be sent out via a separate schedule after enrolment. The class descriptions from 2022 are available here.
B.A. from an accredited institution and a basic reading knowledge of Hebrew or higher. Due to limited space, priority is given to Pardes Year and Semester alum.
A reference is required from someone who is familiar with the applicant’s study skills and/or Jewish commitment as well as the personal character. Typical recommenders include: supervisors, professors, rabbis or professionals at Jewish or other organizations with which you have been involved. Please do not submit recommendations from personal friends or relatives. Click here for the Recommendation Form.
Tuition (20 or more hours/week): $350 (Israelis NIS 590)
Discounts that may apply:
Alumni, please contact Hodaya at registrar@pardes.org.il.
There is no financial aid available for this program.
Participation if space is available, at extra cost.
Pardes students usually rent apartments in Jerusalem. Pardes provides helpful housing resources to accepted students, including a listserve. Click here for more info about finding housing in Jerusalem.
Amira Mintz-Morgenthau, amira@pardes.org (North America)
Carmella Rose, carmella@pardes.org.il, +972 (0)2 673-5210 ext 230 (Global)