Rabbi Mark Biller, spiritual leader of Congregation Beth Ahm in Verona, is giving a provocative three-part series, titled “Here’s What They Ask When You Get to Heaven.” The series, sponsored by National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), West Morris Section’s Our Jewish World program, is free and open to the public.

Because of the recent snowstorm, one of the sessions was postponed to Wed., April 5, at noon, at the Morris County Library.

Our Jewish World is coordinated by Melanie Levitan and Ellen Nesson, both of Morristown.

Notes Rabbi Biller, “This title implies an afterlife, which shocks many post-mid-20th-century Jews. It imagines a body fulfilling actions while a soul is measuring and being measured by those actions.”

More important, he points out, is that when talmudic rabbis discuss “what you are asked in heaven,” they are really asking what factors are needed to guide life in the here and now. This course is crucial for believers, non-believers, agnostics, atheists–anyone who is serious about charting a life that is meaningful and of value.

Each of the participants will be encouraged to take stock of their life through the lens of the fourth-century teacher Rava, and see what has changed in 17 centuries–or not–in how we define “a life well lived.”

Says Rabbi Biller, “This is a great class for anyone who thinks about what makes a life of meaning. Rava, in the fourth century, boldly states, ‘Here are the questions they ask you when you get to heaven.’ Is this on-the-ground reportage, or is he guiding us with the questions we need to ask ourselves here and now?”

“Here’s What They Ask When You Get to Heaven” will offer a lively, inclusive discussion and insights into what matters most.

A master storyteller, Rabbi Biller thoroughly enjoys teaching and brings a fresh, bright outlook to Judaism’s traditional texts.

The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. For further information about NCJW, West Morris Section, visit www.ncjwwestmorris.org.

Preregistration is required for Rabbi Biller’s series. To preregister for the April 5 session, email ellen.nesson@gmail.com.