781.3

AT EVENING I SEEK YOU  (1998)

At

Musical program featuring cantors from across the U.S. leading a Maariv service for the weekday evening. This program was produced by the Jewish Theological Seminary in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Cantors Assembly and was aired on ABC-TV. It encourages Jews to seek spirituality in the liturgy. The cantors provide explanations of the prayers, and add their personal insights. Note: This program was aired as a High Holiday special, but its content is the regular Maariv service—it does not relate in particular to the High Holidays.

1 hr.  AGE: Adult

529.326

BACK TO TISHREI  (1989)

Bac

Follow Leora on her magical adventure through the Jewish calendar as she experiences the uniqueness of each month. Produced by the BJE of Greater New York, this video highlights a Jewish holiday within each month.

23 min.  AGE: 5 to 10

JHVC

921

A Conversation with Abraham Joshua Heschel  (1973)

Hes

The prophets of ancient Israel spoke with great urgency for the late Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel. A refugee from Germany who became professor of Jewish ethics and mysticism at the Jewish Theological Seminary, Heschel combined deep scholarship with a strong moral passion which led him to march with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and to oppose the Vietnam War. This film consists of NBC news correspondent Carl Stern’s interview of Heschel shortly before his death in 1972. In this interview Heschel discusses his philosophy of God, his involvement in social and political causes, the value of Bible study, the "abrasive" nature of prophets, and his thoughts on the hereafter. He defines humanity's deepest passion as "a craving for the meaning of existence."

B&W. 1 hr.  AGE: 14 to Adult

296.65

AMERICA’S SYNAGOGUE: A VIDEO PORTRAIT OF TOURO SYNAGOGUE, 

12 min.  AGE:  10 to Adult

291.1

CONVERSION  (In Two Octaves: A Debate of Eight Parts Between Judaism & Christianity)

In

(1995)

Part 4 of an eight-part debate which took place in Jerusalem in 1992 between Professor Yeshaiyahu Leibowitz and Father Professor Marcel Dubois. In this segment, attitudes towards conversion are discussed by the two men. Leibowitz gives his response to groups such as “Jews for Jesus.” Dubois is asked to explain how the Dominican Order could have led the Spanish Inquisition—how they were able to rationalize persecuting and torturing Jews in the name of holiness.

29 min.  AGE: Adult

946

THE DISPUTATION: A THEOLOGICAL DEBATE BETWEEN CHRISTIANS AND JEWS

Dis

(1992)

A re-creation of the Barcelona Disputation of 1263 between Rabbi Moses ben Nachman and Brother Pablo Christiani—a theological confrontation between Christianity and Judaism.

1 hr. 5 min.  AGE: 12 to Adult

296.833

DO YOU BELIEVE IN MIRACLES?  (1996)

Do

Orthodox author Hanoch Teller wrote and produced this film which includes short reenactments—based on real-life incidents—of miraculous things which happened to ordinary people. Gathered here are stories of extraordinary things that happened to people—occurrences which defy the laws of nature and reason. Teller contends that these are evidence of Divine Providence—evidence of God’s involvement in our lives. Note: Ideal for discussion with teens or adults on miracles and the role God plays in our lives. Are these occurrences the result of coincidence or Divine Intervention?

1 hr. 2 min.  AGE: 12 to Adult

296.4

ENDINGS AND BEGINNINGS  (1993)

End

The Jewish Theological Seminary produced this video which looks at many different aspects of the Jewish religion, arriving at a composite of what it means to be Jewish. The film begins with a focus on the different beginnings and endings in Judaism found in the holidays and Jewish life cycle. A wide variety of Jews are interviewed on Jewish subjects including: “Midrash,” “Covenant,” “What it Means to be a Jew,” “Exodus,” “Land,” “Law,” and “How Judaism has Survived.” Main interviewees include Emily Bilski, curator of the Jewish Museum, and Rabbi Neil Gillman of the Jewish Theological Seminary. Note: The film is loosely organized and skips quickly from topic to topic in a somewhat random fashion. Therefore, it is not recommended for classroom use, although it is suitable for individuals or for small group discussions.

1 hr.  AGE: 14 to Adult

291.1

FAITH   (In Two Octaves: A Debate of Eight Parts Between Judaism & Christianity) (1995)

In

Part 2 of an eight-part debate which took place in Jerusalem in 1992 between Professor Yeshaiyahu Leibowitz and Father Professor Marcel Dubois. In this segment, the two men debate on the nature of faith and the Messiah. Leibowitz believes in a Messiah that will arrive “in the end of days,” and Dubois believes that Jesus is the Messiah.

33 min.  AGE: Adult

222.1

FOR OUT OF ZION—THE STORY OF A TORAH  (1974)

For

A sensitive depiction of the role of the Torah in Jewish life and tradition—with special emphasis on the making and the ornamentation of the scroll, and the chanting of the text.

15 min.  AGE: 9 to Adult

296.833

FOUR POINTS OF RADIANCE: HOW FOUR CHASIDIC MASTERS SET THE AGENDA

Fou

FOR JUDAISM IN THEIR TIMES  (1998)

This film examines each of the four major figures in Chasidism: The Ba’al Shem Tov, Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (founder of the Chabad Chasidic Movement), Rabbi Shalom DovBer Schneerson of Lubavitch (founder of the Chabad Lubavitch Yeshiva System), and Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson of Lubavitch. Details of their lives and works are given by a variety of international scholars from several disciplines of Judaic studies, who show us the evolution of the movement of Chasidism. Includes filmclips of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson. Note: Best used for adults interested in Chasidism and its evolution and leaders.

40 min.  AGE: 14 to Adult

296

GANENU: A CHILD’S GARDEN OF JUDAISM  (1990)

Gan

Features tradition-oriented content and Torah-centered value through the use of animation and puppetry. Only two tapes were produced—the first dealing with the Hebrew letter Aleph and the second with Bet.

2 cassettes. 23 min. ea.  AGE: 3 to 6

301.412

HALACHA AND THE JEWISH WOMAN  (1988)

Hal

A report from the first International Jerusalem Conference on Women in Judaism. The central issues discussed include women's roles in religious ritual and divorce.

12 min.  AGE: 12 to Adult

JHVC

301.412

Half the Kingdom  (1990)

Hal

One of the most vital aspects of contemporary Jewish life is the reexamination of the role of women within a historically patriarchal religion. At a time when female rabbis and cantors have become increasingly visible within Reform, Conservative, and Reconstructionist Judaism, many Jewish women in all denominations seek greater inclusion in ritual and communal life. Half the Kingdom focuses on a group of Jewish women in North America and Israel who are committed to achieving a larger role in religious observance. The group includes a rabbi, a novelist, a professor of religion, a Jewish feminist scholar, a Hebrew School principal, a member of the Knesset, and a journalist. They explore the challenges of reconceiving rituals and ceremonies—such as saying kaddish and welcoming a new baby into the Jewish community. The film captures their struggle and the obstacles they face in attempting to reshape Judaism to include them.

59 min.  AGE: 13 to Adult

296.833

THE HASIDIM (Lubavitch-Chabad)  (1972)

Has

Documentary about the Lubavitch Movement, narrated by Rabbi Chaim Drizin, which provides background to the Chabad Movement, describing their religious philosophy and explaining traditions and customs. Includes footage of a farbrengen with the Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneerson. The film features the celebrations of Purim, Sukkot and Shabbat, including Havdalah. Scenes of a wedding ceremony and a look inside a religious grade school complete this picture of Lubavitch life.

29 min.  AGE: 12 to Adult

492.4

HORA'AT HA'TEFILAH  (1990)

Hor

This Hebrew video accompanies a curriculum in Hebrew containing readiness/ preparation (for Te’filah), concepts, integrating with other curriculum strands and school “Tefilah assemblies,” sources and related materials, and sheets for making transparencies. The video is divided into three parts, each meant to be used separately. The first skit shows what the affect of prayer can do for you [high school and older]. The second skit called “Angels” is a humorous view of someone imagining where prayers are received in the heavens, showing the different types of prayer [junior high - high school]. The third part is wordless and shows scenes of different types of Jews coming to pray at the kotel—and the study guide provides related questions for the students. Note: The Hebrew in the video is too advanced for American students. The curriculum itself can be adapted to American schools, but users must be fluent in Hebrew. Curriculum binder can be found in the CJL Creativity Center.

In Hebrew. 15 min.  AGE: Adult

200

HOW DO YOU SPELL GOD?  (1996)

How

Focuses on basic questions children ask about God, faith, miracles, death, our place in the world, and why bad things happen. The video alternates between clips of children from many different backgrounds talking about their views on these subjects and with short animated stories and poems. Animated segments include the Hindu tale Three Blind Men and an Elephant, Ruth Krauss’ The Carrot Seed, Judith Viorst’s The Tenth Good Thing About Barney, Isaac Bashevis Singer’s Menashe’s Dream, and poems by Maya Angelou and A. A. Milne. An excellent film to trigger further discussions about God, faith, and their place in the world. The video is high interest, easy to follow and very well produced. Children depicted seem to be ages 4-10 and represent many religions including Jewish, Christian, Muslim and Buddhist. A three-part segment called The Tale of the Watch is interspersed throughout the video and illustrates in a simple and clear manner three ways that Judaism, Christianity and Buddhism look at the relationships between God, man and the world. Based on the book of the same title by Rabbi Marc Gellman and Monsignor Thomas Hartman. Features their voices as well as those of Maya Angelou, Deepak Chopra and a number of well known actors. Highly recommended.

32 min.  AGE: 8 to 12

296.3

I ASK FOR WONDER—EXPERIENCING GOD  (1988)

Ias

In this inspiring video, Jews who have emerged from personal tragedy discuss the different ways they encounter God. The film features, among others, Rabbi Harold Kushner, who lost a son; Hirschel Jaffe, who outran his own leukemia; the parents of a disabled child; and a woman who confronted crib death and infertility. Theologians from Reform, Conservative and Orthodox Judaism describe their beliefs and commitments.

57 min.  AGE: 14 to Adult

JHVC

296.833

In Her Own Time  (1985)

In

When Barbara Myerhoff, whose life as an anthropologist has been dedicated to the studies of community, learns that she is dying of lung cancer, she decides to document her own search for solace in the spiritual community of Jewish religious observance. Myerhoff engages in a journey through the pathways of Judaism while studying the life of an Orthodox community in Los Angeles. A secular academic accustomed to a life of individuality and independence, she nonetheless feels herself drawn to living in a way that is more intensely Jewish, more bound by rituals and traditions. Her quest for a place for her soul is the basis of In Her Own Time, as much about life as about dying.

50 min.  AGE: 13 to Adult

296.65

IN THE SYNAGOGUE  (1994)

In

Twelve-year-old Emily, a “photographer,” sets out to discover the meaning of the synagogue. She visits and photographs a number of synagogues in New York. Emily meets congregants praying, studying and celebrating together and discovers her own Jewish identity in the process. Produced by UAHC. Study guide available.

25 min.  AGE: 5 to 12

296.4

THE JEWISH CUSTOMS  (1988)

Jew

This video has six brief segments, each highlighting a specific Jewish custom, ceremony or value.

48 min. total  AGE: 10 to Adult

The Sabbath. Gives the Biblical background of the Sabbath, explains why certain acts of labor are prohibited on Shabbat, and shows a family performing the Sabbath evening blessings and singing Shabbat songs. This segment ends with a demonstration and explanation of a Havdalah ceremony. Note: There is no washing of hands with its blessing prior to eating challah.  (10 min.)

What Is Kosher? Explains the Jewish dietary laws—the laws of Kashrut. The film illustrates some kosher and non-kosher animals and talks about the prohibition against mixing milk and meat products in the same meal, and the requirement of using separate dishes, pots and utensils for meat and dairy. The Biblical basis for the laws of Kashrut is provided as well. Note: The video Is It Kosher? is a more complete source of information for classroom study.  (6 min.)

Hanukah. Provides history behind the holiday, including the story of the Maccabees. A description is given of how the menorah is kindled, and the blessings are recited and are shown on-screen in transliteration and with their English translation. The custom of eating fried foods on the holiday is described, and children are shown playing dreidel.  (9½ min.)

The Shofar. What is a shofar and when and why do Jews blow the shofar? This segment addresses these questions and shows how shofars are made. The three different types of sounds Jews traditionally blow on the shofar are demonstrated, and an explanation as to why these sounds were chosen is provided.  (4½ min.)

Mezuzah and Tefillin. Describes the contents of the writing inside a mezuzah and tefillin, and shows how scribes make both. Viewers watch the ceremony of “Hanukat Bayit”—affixing the mezuzah on a new Jewish home and learn why Jews place mezuzot on their doorposts.  (9½ min.)

Tzedakah: The Jewish Concept of Charity. The Hebrew word “tzedakah” is defined here as meaning both righteousness and charity. In the Bible, tzedakah is shown to be a form of social justice rather than philanthropy. This segment describes Maimonides’ eight degrees of charity, with a mime acting them out. Finally, examples of Jewish tzedakah in our world are described.  (8 min.)

296.4

JEWISH SYMBOLS

Jew

Explains the Judaic concept of "one God," the holiness of prayer, Jewish ethics, 613 mitzvahs, circumcision, tallis, tefilin, Sabbath services and many other Judaic laws and customs.

23 min.  AGE: 10 to Adult

296

JUDAISM: THE RELIGION OF A PEOPLE  (1994)

Jud

Ideal for individuals who wish to learn more about Judaism. This video presents an overview of the Jewish religion, tracing the history, development and practice of Judaism. Areas covered include the practice of Judaism, the ancient faith, the Torah, the Holocaust, Judaism, Israel, and Judaism in America. Study guide available.

24 min.  AGE: 14 to Adult

296.73

THE KOSHER VIDEO  (1998)

Kos

Produced by the Orthodox Union, this video succinctly explains what kosher means and the certification process the Orthodox Union follows. It explains kosher supervision and tells what some of the kosher symbols mean. The viewer follows the procedure through which a bakery product, previously non-kosher, is changed to meet kosher standards. Note: Although probably produced primarily for food companies interested in certification, this is a clear and excellent explanation of what it means for foods to be kosher. Great for classroom use.

16 min.  AGE: 10 to Adult

296.4

LET’S DAVEN TOGETHER  (1997)

Let

This video is designed to teach 15 of the most commonly used Shabbat prayers to a basic Hebrew reader. Each prayer appears piece by piece printed on the screen in Hebrew. First the instructor reads the prayer—then the viewer is to read the prayer—then the viewer is asked to repeat the prayer, this time in unison with the instructor. All prayers are spoken, not sung with the nigun (melody). A guide in the video cover gives the order of the prayers taught and where they are found in the Shabbat service. Note: Viewers must possess a basic knowledge of Hebrew reading to use this video. Prayers are not transliterated, so this is only useful to readers of Hebrew, who generally can read the prayers on their own. It is, therefore, best used by those who have just learned to read Hebrew and want to practice with prayers, or by those who have a basic reading knowledge of Hebrew but wish reinforcement in familiarizing themselves with the prayers.

1 hr. 42 min.  AGE: 10 to Adult

222.1

LET’S WRITE A TORAH (The Tefillin Factory)  (n.d.)

Let

Informative video which shows the complete process of making tefillin and writing a Sefer Torah. Includes the processing of animal hides into parchment; cutting a “quill” pen; preparing special ink; and the actual writing on the parchment. The film also includes the detailed steps in creating tefillin and shows how mezuzot are made.

18 min.  AGE: 10 to Adult

296.833

A LIFE APART: HASIDISM IN AMERICA  (1997)

Lif

Well received documentary presenting an in-depth portrait of Hasidic life in America. The film includes an archival clip of the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s 1929 visit to New York, and shows how the post-war remnants of Hasidism in Europe came to America and rebuilt their lives and communities. Interviewed here are members of various Hasidic sects in Brooklyn including the Bobovers, the Belzers, the Gerers, the Skvers, the Satmars and the Lubavitchers—as well as their black and Latino neighbors. The filmmakers take us into Hasidic homes, showing portraits of family and communal life. An insightful film, presenting a positive portrait of Hasidism. Narrated by Leonard Nimoy and Sarah Jessica Parker and directed by Oren Rudausky and Menachem Daum.

1 hr. 30 min.  AGE: 12 to Adult

726.3

THE MISHKAN  (1999)

Mis

Recommended by Israel’s Religious Education Ministry, this video shows in detail the components of the Mishkan (Tabernacle), the portable forerunner of the Temple, located in the center of the Jews encampment in the desert. The film uses computer-generated graphics as well as models to describe each part of the Mishkan. Also shown in detail is the prescribed clothing of the priests and of the “Kohen Gadol.” The film is halachically accurate. Note: The first six minutes is somewhat confusing, showing parts of the Mishkan without narration. Teachers may wish to skip ahead to where the speaking begins. The reference book The Tabernacle in the library provides an excellent source of further information.

26 min.  AGE: 10 to Adult

296.442

THE MITZVAH MACHINE  (1987)

Mit

Animated trigger film about a boy who is resistant to his upcoming Bar Mitzvah, feeling that a machine could say the words and do the rituals as well as himself. He builds a robot clone of himself which actually performs the Bar Mitzvah—and he learns that a person doesn’t “have” a Bar Mitzvah, he “becomes” one. Designed to emphasize the importance of making mitzvot a part of everyday Jewish life. Study guide available.

9 min.  AGE: 9 to Adult

296.4

THE PERFECT GIFT  (1988)

Per

A Jewish book and gift store owner explains the following significant items in Jewish life: mezuzah, Yahrzeit candles, tallit, tefillin, ketubah, tzedekah box, menorah and major books important to Jewish life. Stars Theodore Bikel. Study guide available.

29 min.  AGE: 9 to Adult

291.1

Redemption, Mysticism, A DEMANDING Religion & A GRANTING Religion

In

(In Two Octaves: A Debate of Eight Parts Between Judaism & Christianity) (1995)

Part 3 of an eight-part debate which took place in Jerusalem in 1992 between Professor Yeshaiyahu Leibowitz and Father Professor Marcel Dubois. In this segment, Leibowitz and Dubois discuss the attitudes of their religions towards redemption, mysticism and the Christian concept of “a Savior.” In this discussion, Judaism is considered the religion “that demands” while Christianity is the “benevolent” religion.

35 min.  AGE: Adult

JHVC

917.3

Return Trips  (1991)

Ret

In embracing the freedom and opportunity of their new homeland, many Jewish immigrants abandoned, distorted, or watered down their spiritual heritage. To many of their children and grandchildren, Judaism held no particular interest. Against all odds, however, a remarkable resurgence of Jewish identity began in the late 1960’s. Using archival material, music, and memories, Return Trips chronicles both the Americanization of early Jewish immigrants and the "return" of a generation formed by the counterculture movement. It charts the scope of revitalization through visits to Jewish communities in a number of American cities and interviews with leaders of the chavura, Jewish renewal, and Orthodox return movements. The filmmakers share their personal stories—from their families' eager assimilation to their own halting steps back: curiosity leading to discovery and study, then to tentative practice and, finally, commitment.

1 hr.  AGE: 12 to Adult

JHVC

296.4

Ritual: Three Portraits of Jewish Life  (1989)

Rit

The practice of ritual affirms our place within our faith, fosters a sense of continuity and identity, and affords stability. But does the process of performing a ritual guarantee a spiritual experience? Or are rituals merely tools that help us express spirituality? Ritual: Three Portraits of Jewish Life examines the place and nature of rituals in Judaism, and tries to answer these questions. The film explores the importance and meaning of ritual through examples drawn from life: a rabbinical student explains why she has incorporated daily prayer into her life; a family builds a sukkah to enhance their celebration of the Sukkot holiday; and a mother and father describe their emotions as they participate in the circumcision ceremony of their newborn son. Interspersed with these moving examples, theologians discuss the nature of rituals and try to define exactly what they are.

1 hr.  AGE: 12 to Adult

296.445

"SAYING KADDISH"  (1991)

Say

This drama deals with a Jewish family affirming life in the face of death. Focuses on the relationship of two grown sisters after the death of their mother, as well as the importance of community in a time of personal crisis. Sibling rivalry is an additional theme. One sister remained single and helped care for her ill mother; and she resents the other sister (played by Tova Feldshuh) who moved out of town, married (and is now separated with a child) and has a important career. The out-of-town sister, on the other hand, feels that the mother rejected her and favored her sister—and she is initially unable to mourn. Produced by the Jewish Theological Seminary. Note: Jewish mourning customs are also illustrated in this fine film which won an Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Subject.

58 min.  AGE: 10 to Adult

296.442

TEFILLIN  (1993)

Tef

Zerach Greenfield, assisted by the staff of Oter Yisrael, guides the viewer through the steps and halachic requirements of the yearlong production process of making tefillin. He also demonstrates the art of writing a Sefer Torah, a Mezuzah and Tefillin.

30 min.  AGE: 10 to adult