Traditionally radical?

An unorthodox description

Traditional and radical aren’t normally two words used together to describe the same thing. But then you might not have encountered Svara before.

Svara, whose tagline is “A Traditionally Radical Yeshiva,” empowers queer and trans people to expand Torah and tradition through the spiritual practice of Talmud study. Through virtual and in-person learning, SVARA provides opportunities for Jews of all backgrounds, especially those who have previously been on the margins, to learn from the wisdom of our ancestors. By studying the ways the rabbis overturned and upgraded their laws to create a more just society for their time, Svara’s students uncover pathways to make similar change in our own time.

Last summer, Rabbi Benay Lappe, founder and rosh yeshiva of Svara, delivered a keynote address at FJMC’s biannual convention in Chicago. Whether you are a member of the LGBTQ+ community or a friend and ally, Svara has multiple opportunities to connect over the coming months:

• Registration for Svara’s Open Bet Midrash is open now, and there are opportunities for folks of all learning levels, whether this is your first time exploring a masechet or you are an avid Talmud scholar. All of these opportunities are taking place virtually, with learning beginning the week of March 9.
• This summer, Svara is offering a five-day, in-person retreat, Queer Talmud Camp. Applications are now open for the program, which takes place from June 28 to July 2 in Petaluma, Calif.
• On Thursday, March 26, at 7:30 p.m. ET, Svara will be hosting Shaping Tradition, its annual fundraiser and community celebration. This year, the yeshiva is honoring Rabbi Lisa Edwards and Shira Kline for their transformative leadership and enduring contributions to a more just, imaginative and liberated Jewish future.

Have any questions about how to get involved? Contact Svara’s development director, Elli Krandel, at .