The subject of Jewish Studies, in its ideal design, strives to encompass the wide spectrum of disciplines also offered by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem’s Institute of Jewish Studies: the Bible, the Talmud, Hebraic literature, the history of Jewish peoples, Jewish thought, Jewish mysticism, etc. The Jewish Studies tradition in Germany, which sees itself as the successor of the 19^th century movement “Wissenschaft des Judentums,” can only attempt to try to match this wide spectrum in its research and teachings. This is most likely not only due to the limited resources of a small institute, but also due to the demands of qualified research work that is only possible through specialization.

The range of courses offered by the Institute of Jewish Studies focus primarily on the areas of history, literature, and religion of Judaism from antiquity to the present. Specific emphasis is placed on a strong language development and on the period of late antiquity, a period influential in the later development of Judaism. The curriculum additionally focuses on the mysticism of the Middle Ages and the ethical literature as well as Jewish-German cultural and thought history.

The range of courses are oriented to the needs of the students. The Institute makes an effort to foster interdisciplinary scholarship by working with disciplines in the history, literature and theological disciplines and by offering interdisciplinary courses and lectures.