Radical Readings 2: Recovering the Anti-Imperialist Vision of the Hebrew Bible

For many people the political and social vision of the Torah is confusing at best. Learning its stories in bits and pieces makes it hard to see the big picture. However, when read in its historical context, alongside contemporary sources from Mesopotamia, Assyria, Babylon, Ancient Egypt, and others, its vision is startling and provocative. Its teachings on everything from egalitarianism to militarism to anarchy to the redistribution of wealth can often be overlooked, whether through superficial readings or the active suppression of these elements.

In this class, we will read ancient creation narratives side-by-side to unveil an ethical and political vision that fundamentally advocates for rebellion against the dominant imperialist and militarist regimes of the time. Using the same comparative method and drawing from contemporary research, we will also examine laws relating to money, taxation, state power, and military violence to understand how the Hebrew Bible uses law to fight against intergenerational poverty, redistribute wealth, cultivate cultural and ethnic diversity, and more.

Thursday, October 1st from 7-8:30pm

Upstairs Lounge at the Peretz Centre 

6184 Ash St., Vancouver, BC V5Z 3G9

 ➤   How to Get Here / Building & Accessibility Information

Parking is available on the street or in the underground parkade.

This seminar is part of the 2026-2027 Radical Readings series, led by Matthew Gindin. Radical Readings invites participants to reflect on the timelessly radical implications of classical Jewish texts through text-based study and discussion. Reading and understanding writings that are centuries old is hard; by reading together and introducing modern, secular historical research alongside traditional sources, these classes open accessible pathways into core Jewish literature and equip participants to critically engage with Jewish traditions. What we find may be the tools we need to fight injustice and oppression today.

Registration is required in advance, with up to 25 spots available. The Radical Readings series is open to continuing and new students from diverse cultures, beliefs, and identities, on a sliding scale. No one will be turned away for lack of funds (contact admin@peretz-centre.org).

You can join the next seminar, "The Talmud and the Ethics of City Life," on October 8th!

Matthew Gindin has been teaching Jewish history, philosophy, and contemplative traditions in a wide variety of settings since 2004. Formerly Peretz Education Director and Master Teacher at Or Shalom, we welcomed Matthew back to the Peretz Centre in 2024. He also works as a freelance writer and editor, professional lecturer, and independent journalist.

Image credit: Original lions illustration by Yosl Culter, from Di goldene paṿe by Moshe Leib Halpern (Grupe Yidish, Cleveland, 1924).