Rumi Forum had its monthly circle on June 16, 2023, to study Abrahamic scriptures on the topic of “Gates and Doors – 1” with our study leader, Rabbi Ilana Zietman, from the GatherDC.

Scriptural Reasoning (SR) allows Christians, Jews, and Muslims to study each other’s sacred texts. SR participants meet monthly to read short passages from their respective scriptures on a certain topic. Facilitated by a study leader, each session is an opportunity to listen and share various perspectives. SR sessions help participants reflect on a curious list of topics within the Abrahamic tradition. The result is often a deeper understanding of others and one’s own scriptures, as well as the development of strong bonds across faith communities.

                Scriptural Reasoning: Introduction                         Jewish Scripture: Hebrew Bible

               Christian Scripture: New Testament                              Islamic Scripture: Quran

This Month’s Study Leader

Rabbi Ilana Zietman is a pluralistic rabbi who fosters Jewish experiences and communities that are relevant, thought-provoking, and, most importantly, welcoming. She serves as the Community Rabbi of GatherDC, a nonprofit that connects Jewish 20s & 30s to each other, engages them in Jewish DC, and facilitates their development of meaningful adult Jewish identities wherever they go in life.

She also serves on the advisory council of Avodah: The Jewish Service Corps in DC. In 2019, Ilana received her rabbinic ordination and a master’s degree in Jewish Education from Hebrew College. She now lives in Petworth with her husband, Jack, their new baby, Jesse, and their sweet dog, Ella.