Limmud Toronto 2018

Champion Toronto litigators take on a hypothetical Biblical court case concerning a family law/property dispute over a birthright and inheritance, Esau v. Jacob.  The litigators will argue their position in front of a Judge, and the jury will consist of Limmudniks who sit in the Rosie Abella Moot Court.  Lawyers will combine arguing legal principles (e.g. is it against public policy to obtain an inheritance by deception? Was Jacob’s “purchase” of Esau’s birthright via lentil soup a valid acquisition?) with Biblical exegesis (e.g. Rebecca had a personal divine revelation that the blessing would go to the younger twin; younger brothers are almost always favoured in the Biblical narrative). The courtroom-style presentation will conclude with final appeals to the “jury” by both lawyers, and end with the Judge instructing the “jury” of Limmudniks, who will vote their verdict.


This is live courtroom drama, mixed with Talmudic and legalistic exegesis.  There would be a lot of learning in a fresh way.  It would bring a famous biblical story to life, and draw on the talents of Toronto’s outstanding Jewish bar, who can combine advocacy skills with informed understanding of Jewish texts.


Fred Tayar will act for Esau. Marvin Huberman will act for Jacob.