Rabbinic Torah Seminar (RTS) FAQ’s
Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Rabbinic Torah Seminar at the Shalom Hartman Institute. Click on any of the questions below to see the answers. We look forward to seeing you this summer in Jerusalem.
For more information, contact Tal Zmiri Willner.
What is the Rabbinic Torah Seminar?
The Rabbinic Torah Seminar is an intensive, pluralistic, ten-day seminar for rabbis at the Hartman Institute. Each summer, a diverse group of rabbis join senior Shalom Hartman Institute scholars and guest lecturers in Jerusalem to explore foundational Jewish ideas and central dilemmas of contemporary Jewish life. Leading scholars in Bible, Talmud, Jewish philosophy and theology, history, and mysticism share texts and ideas from the Jewish tradition on the summer’s unique theme. ^
Who are the faculty?
Faculty are Shalom Hartman Institute scholars from Israel and North America who are rabbis, academics, and senior educators. Every year, we invite a few prominent intellectuals and religious leaders from outside of the Institute who are experts in the particular summer seminar theme. In addition, the Institute often invites speakers with insight into the Israel-Diaspora relationship to address contemporary issues in Israeli society. ^
Who attends?
The program attracts approximately 180 rabbis from North America, Israel, and other countries around the world, representing all streams of Judaism. Cantors, rabbinical students, and retired rabbis are also welcome. ^
Where do participants stay in Jerusalem?
RTS participants are responsible for their own travel and lodging arrangements. The Institute offers discounted rates at several area hotels, and many participants choose to rent apartments for their stay in Jerusalem. Accommodations and special rates for program participants can be found here. ^
How much is the registration fee?
The tuition fee for the 2023 Rabbinic Torah Seminar is $1,150. Early Bird registration fee is $1,050 until February 24, 2023. All rabbinical students and Israeli rabbis: $500. ^
What is included in the registration fee?
The registration fee includes all lectures, programs, and study materials, a full-day excursion, morning snacks, lunches, and dinners. ^
What is the cancellation policy?
A full refund, less 5 percent processing fee, will be issued up until a week before the program begins (June 27, 2023). If cancellation is less than a week before the start of the program, participants will receive a 50 percent refund. ^
What are the COVID-19 safety policies?
The Shalom Hartman Institute will follow all of the regulations set forth by the Israeli Health Ministry, and will remain in touch with all registrants regarding COVID-19 protocols as relevant to the RTS program in July 2023.
Based on the COVID-19 situation in July 2023, the Shalom Hartman Institute may implement additional measures to ensure the health and safety of all participants. ^
What is a typical program day like?
The program starts daily at 8:30 am with havruta learning and the main Beit Midrash shiur. Lunch is at 12:30 pm. After lunch, there are Peer Workshops until 2:30 pm, often followed by optional enrichment sessions. The program reconvenes at 5:00 pm with elective small-group seminars. Participants choose their electives before they arrive. Dinner is served at 6:30 pm, followed by an evening program that typically concludes by 9:00 pm.
The tiyul day this summer will be Monday, July 10, 2023. ^
Is there Shabbat programming?
There is a havruta and a Beit Midrash shiur on the morning of Friday, July 7. Participants are free from Friday lunchtime until Shabbat afternoon. Shabbat afternoon and evening activities include a shiur at 5:00 pm, a family-friendly Seudah Shlishit, and a Tisch & Havdalah. Participants organize their own Friday night and Shabbat lunch meals. ^
Are meals included?
Lunch and dinner are provided daily when there is programming. Participants are welcome to bring guests to any meal as long they order and pay 24 hours in advance. ^
What is the dress code?
Dress at the Institute is casual, Israeli summer attire. Air conditioning can be strong in some rooms, so light layers are recommended. ^
Will I have Internet access?
There is secured wireless internet connection accessible throughout the Institute’s campus. A password is provided upon arrival. ^
May family members attend parts of the program?
We warmly invite spouses/partners or family members of RTS participants to join us for any evening program or meal (when reserved and paid in advance) There is also the possibility to bring a guest on the tiyul, space permitting. ^
Are there arrangements for participants traveling with children?
If you are traveling with children and need advice on resources, including information on babysitting, day care, day and overnight camps, and child-friendly attractions, please contact Tal Zmiri Willner. ^