Left to right: Prof. Noah Hacham, Mayor of Jerusalem Moshe Lion, President Yitzhak Herzog, Prof. Asher Cohen, Prof. Tamir Sheafer, Prof. Nissim Otmazgin | Credit: Yossi Zamir

 

On January 7-9, 2025, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem hosted an international conference celebrating 100 years since the establishment of its Institute of Jewish Studies. The conference, titled “Jewish Studies Between the Past and the Future,” brought together leading scholars, policymakers, and public figures to reflect on a century of achievements and envision the future of Jewish Studies.

 

Upholding Unity and Tradition

The event opened with a special ceremony on January 7, honored by the presence of Yitzhak Herzog, President of the State of Israel. President Herzog spoke about the establishment and success of the Institute of Jewish Studies at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, a beacon of academic and research brilliance. Herzog extended his gratitute towards Prof. Noah Hacham, Head of the Insitute of Jewish Studies, for his leadership, as well as all those involved in the important mission of advancing Jewish studies.

 

President Herzog took a moment to address current events, adding, "as Jewish scholars, you are undoubtedly aware that we are living through one of the most challenging periods in the history of our people. In such times, it is more important than ever to delve deeply into our roots, using the invaluable tools provided by Jewish scholarship to explore and uphold the most cherished values of our tradition.

 

"We must, without hesitation—both as a united people and as a sovereign state—act decisively, using all means at our disposal to bring our kidnapped men and women home. This is an urgent and critical task that demands our unwavering commitment."

 

"We must, without hesitation—both as a united people and as a sovereign state—act decisively, using all means at our disposal to bring our kidnapped men and women home." Yitchak Herzog, President of the State of Israel

 

Founding of the Institute

The Institute of Jewish Studies was founded a century ago in 1924, during the festival of Hanukkah, laying the cornerstone for what would become the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The Institute's establishment marked a historic turning point in Jewish scholarship, becoming a global leader in the field and advancing our understanding of Jewish history, culture, and identity.

 

Prof. Hacham noted that "this centennial conference is not only a celebration of our past but also an opportunity to chart an ambitious course for the future of Jewish Studies."

 

Conference Highlights

The conference featured an opening session dedicated to the Institute’s foundational principles and its connections with academic institutions worldwide, as well as six thematic sessions highlighting key areas of research.

 

These sessions included: The Voice of the People: Exploring popular culture, folklore, and daily Jewish life; Orienting to the East: Insights into the history and culture of Sephardi and Mizrahi Jewry; Philology 2.0: Innovations in philological methods and their impact; Know Yourself: Examining the connections between research and identity in Jewish Studies; Will a People Live in Isolation?: Addressing the boundaries between Jewish and surrounding cultures; and Breaking Boundaries: Analyzing interdisciplinary approaches and unexpected intersections in Jewish Studies.

 

The conference closed with a session on future challenges and opportunities in the field of Jewish Studies. The discussion emphasized digital humanities, artificial intelligence, and evolving disciplinary boundaries.

 

For a century, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has been a beacon for visionary minds who challenge norms and shape the future. Founded by luminaries like Albert Einstein, who entrusted his intellectual legacy to the University, it is dedicated to advancing knowledge, fostering leadership, and promoting diversity. Home to over 23,000 students from 90 countries, the Hebrew University drives much of Israel’s civilian scientific research, with over 11,000 patents and groundbreaking contributions recognized by eight Nobel Prizes, two Turing Awards, and a Fields Medal. Ranked 81st globally by the Shanghai Ranking (2024), it celebrates a century of excellence in research, education, and innovation. To learn more about the University’s academic programs, research, and achievements, visit the official website at http://new.huji.ac.il/en.