Turning Points in Jewish History: A Polish Translation

A Roundtable Discussion with Rabbis Marc Rosenstein, Barry Schwartz, Menachem Mirski, Mati Kirschenbaum, Drs. Miroslaw Patalon, and Dominika Zakrzewska

WATCH THE FULL WEBINAR HERE

The Polish translation of Rabbi Marc Rosenstein’s Turning Points in Jewish History will give the Polish reading public a greater understanding of Jewish history. The historical volume makes accessible over thirty pivotal moments from biblical times to the near present to provide the reader with “the big picture.” Its teachers will augment and embellish the Polish version using text and online sources as a core. This is similar to the process developed by the Jewish Publication Society, which has licensed this effort.

The presentations focus on “turning points” from Hellenistic-Roman times, five in the Middle Ages and thirteen in modernity. A group of Polish-speaking Professors and educators will work to adapt the lesson plans to Polish realities alongside adult education leaders such as Rabbi Barry Schwartz and other congregational leaders. We are pleased that noted translator Dorota Golebiewska has agreed to work on the central text. The committee of Polish and International scholars will develop accompanying materials.

Jewish Historical Institute

The project is dedicated to the memory of Professor Pawel Spiewak, who trained as a sociologist but was truly a Renaissance individual. Spiewak was the long-time director of the Jewish Historical Institute who fostered many of the archives’ historical projects. Shortly before his passing, Spiewak agreed to oversee the translation of Turning Points in Jewish History. All mourn the loss of Spiewak’s wise presence.

The translation and curriculum project is now in the skillful hands of Dr. Dominika Zakrzewska, Professor Miroslaw Patalon, Hania Gawronska, Rabbis Mirski and Kirschenbaum with members of the Rabbi Michael A. Signer Clergy Cabinet.