JLAW 310 Advanced Jewish Law and Customs I
Final Exam and Transcript Provided by Davar Academy
JLAW 310 is a self-study course whose grade is based solely on the final examination. The course of study that is necessary to be prepared for the final examination consists of lessons based on the readings noted in this syllabus. Students should read the entire text of all the reading assignments. There are no formal assignments, but students are encouraged to take the practice quizzes associated with the readings to ensure that they have gleaned the appropriate knowledge to fulfill the course objectives and are well prepared for the final exam.
This course explores Jewish laws and customs observed in day to day living. It will cover the concepts, laws and customs commonly encountered and practiced according to the major Rabbinical authorities of the modern era found in the Shulchan Aruch and Mishna Berura. The course will cover the major principles and their underlying premises and how these are applied to novel situations. Topics include washing the hands in the morning, tefillin, tzitzit, prayer on weekdays, Sabbath and festivals, Torah reading in synagogue.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- Identify and explain the laws and customs detailed in the Shulchan Aruch and Mishna Berura.
- Identify the sources and reasoning at the foundation of the laws and customs of day to day Jewish life.
- Explain, analyze, interpret, and apply Torah law, rabbinical institutions and customs.
- Analyze and interpret the rulings of the leading scholars and identify the sources and reasons for conflicting rulings.
- Determine when stringencies and leniencies apply and describe their impact on conduct and behavior.
- Judge practical cases by using their knowledge of the laws and customs prohibitions and leniencies and the criteria by which they are determined.
Israel Meir (ha-Kohen). Mishna Berura Vol 1. Commentary to Shulchan Aruch Orach Chayim, Comprising the Laws of Daily Jewish Conduct.
The student’s final grade will be based on a final examination. Examination questions will cover all topics covered in the readings. Students will have two hours to complete the final examination. Students will be assigned a number grade from 0-100. A letter grade will also be issued in accordance with the following scale:
90-100 – A
80-89 – B
70-79 – C
0-69 – non passing
