The darkest time in the Jewish calendar, the three weeks leading up to the Ninth of Av, is referred to as bein hametzarim (the narrow places). Marking the final weekend of this period, we will explore some evocative passages in the Book of Jeremiah and in the Book of Lamentations, traditionally attributed to the prophet. We will also reflect on how Jeremiah’s later interpreters in midrash, visual art, and music (including Leonard Bernstein) continued to find meaning in these texts.

Sponsored by Knesset Israel and the Jewish Theological Seminary. Supported by a generous gift from the Harold Grinspoon Foundation and a co-sponsorship grant from Jewish Federation of the Berkshires.