B’nai Sholom Reform Congregation continues its popular “Synagogue Scholars” series with a presentation by Ed Rosen of Albany on the topography, demography, and strategic importance of the Golan Heights.

Rosen will present “Riding Through the History of the Golan” immediately following the congregation’s Friday, Jan. 10, Shabbat service that begins at 8 p.m. B’nai Sholom is at 420 Whitehall Road in Albany.

The service and program are open to all who wish to worship and learn.

The Golan region of Israel has figured prominently in recent news, notably its formal recognition by the United States as a part of Israel. What are the Golan Heights? Why is this territory — not much larger than Rensselaer County — so strategically important? What is its demography and diplomatic history?  How does it differ from the West Bank or Gaza?

Rosen studied history of the modern Middle East and international relations at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. He is an active member of the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel and has traveled the Golan extensively, including hiking and by horseback last winter.
Begun in 2004, B’nai Sholom’s “Synagogue Scholars” series spotlights individuals in the Capital Region Jewish community who are recognized scholars in their fields. For more information about the “Synagogue Scholars” series, visit www.bnaisholomalbany.org or contact the B’nai Sholom office: or 518-482-5283.