The story of the Akhnai Oven—arguably the most famous narrative in the Babylonian Talmud—is full of drama and elegant literary techniques. Most importantly, it functions as a kind of Declaration of Independence, in which the ancient rabbis declare their right to interpret the Torah however they want. If you’ve never studied this foundational text, this is your chance. But if you have, we’ll explore why there’s more going on in the story than you may have thought.

Taught by Professor Jon Levisohn

Jon A. Levisohn teaches Jewish studies and directs a research center at Brandeis University. His academic work focuses on clarifying the purposes of Jewish education. He has also taught in a day school, in supplementary schools, for the Bronfman Fellowship and the Tikvah Fund, and in numerous adult education settings.