On Saturday, October 24, Beth David Synagogue’s Shabbat Luncheon Speaker Series will feature the first guest presenter of the season: Professor Marla Segol, of Buffalo University, whose talk is titled “God as a Loving Mother in Ancient Jewish Prayer.” This monthly series will begin with Shabbat services at 9:30 am, with the luncheon and program following. All community members are invited to attend.
Segol’s talk, part of her current book project, will draw on Jewish liturgical and exegetical texts from the second to the ninth centuries to present images of God as a mother figure. “While some contemporary thinkers might imagine that the idea of inclusive prayer language and presenting God as both male and female is a recent concern, Dr. Segol will demonstrate that ancient Jews grappled with these issues, as well,” said organizers of the event. 
Segol, who was raised in Buffalo, received her B.A. at SUNY New Paltz before earning a doctorate in comparative literature at Rutgers University. She taught at several other institutions before returning to Buffalo in 2012. A scholar of Jewish and gender studies, Segol specializes in Jewish mysticism. Her most recent book is “Kabbalah and Sex Magic,” published by Penn State University Press in 2021. She is also the mother of two adult children and is a paddler. 
“We are fortunate and delighted to have Dr. Segol bring her energy and erudition to Binghamton and Beth David,” organizers added. “A renowned teacher and scholar, she is sure to spark a lively and enriching Shabbat program!”
Beth David Synagogue’s Shabbat Luncheon Speaker Series relies on the generosity of contributors. Donations to the Luncheon Fund are appreciated and can be made in honor or memory of a loved one, or to mark a special occasion. Acknowledgments can be sent by including the necessary information. Donations can be sent to Beth David Synagogue, 39 Riverside Dr., Binghamton, NY 13905, Attention: Luncheon Fund.