The Talmudic story of the Four Who Entered Pardes (aka "the orchard" of expanded consciousness) can be understood as a kind of cautionary tale of the obstacles along our spiritual path. Four enter -- one dies, one goes crazy, one becomes a heretic, and only one (Rabbi Akiva) emerges "b'Shalom." How do we live this story and become like Akiva, engaging with the spiritual path from a place of whole-heartedness? We'll explore this in two parts. The first session will look at the three spiritual blockages and the second will look at the archetype and lineage of Akiva. We will chant our way in and out, to expand our hearts for the journey together, and to have an experience that includes everything from the neck down. If you can't join for both sessions, that's okay!

Ariel Hendelman is a senior Rabbinic student with the Aleph Ordination Program and the spiritual leader of B'nai Or Boston (a Jewish Renewal community). Ariel leads chant and meditation circles online and in person, as well as retreats that center around dreamwork and meaningful melodic prayer. Her debut album, Prayer for Fire & Water, is out now.