Hadar Atlanta: How to Learn Like the Sages

What does it take to truly learn wisdom – not just to study, but to be transformed by it? Drawing on a rich rabbinic meditation on the verse “Haskeit u’shema Yisrael” (“Be still and hear, Israel”), this session explores the spiritual craft of learning through the eyes of the sages. Together we’ll uncover and practice the timeless principles of havruta – learning in partnership – and the mindset it demands: a continuously renewed sense of wonder, listening before speaking, humility in the face of correction, and the courage to wrestle for understanding.

This event kicks off a series of learning events rotating through different synagogues around the north-side of Atlanta. Call it a “Rotating Beit Midrash,” learning centered around the practice of being in community and learning in havruta. If you have never engaged in or experienced the richness of havruta study, this and future Beit Midrash events (rotating between and partnering with Temple Sinai, Congregation Bnai Torah, Congregation Or Hadash, and Temple Emanu-El) are the perfect opportunity to try it out and see for yourself what the sages so passionately recommend. Come discover how the sages taught that wisdom isn’t received — it’s forged, together; in friendship, in partnership, and in community.

Rabbi Ayal Robkin is the incoming Director of Hadar Atlanta. A native Atlantan and graduate of Atlanta Jewish Academy and The Weber School, Ayal has taught Talmud, Bible, Jewish Thought, and mindfulness meditation at the Abraham Joshua Heschel High School in New York, NY for the past ten years. Ayal is a graduate of the Pardes Educators Program and holds rabbinic ordination from Yashrut. He is excited to move back to Atlanta this summer with his wife, Maddy Bloch, and children Neima and Menashe.