Author: MA. Klodeta Cane
On Parashah Vayeira and Biblical Promises
"Genesis: Translation and Commentary" by Robert Alter
A comprehensive translation and commentary on the Book of Genesis, providing insights into the promises made by G_d in Parashah Vayeira.
"The Torah: A Modern Commentary" by W. Gunther Plaut
An in-depth analysis of the Torah, including detailed explanations of Parashah Vayeira and the themes of divine promises and covenants.
"The Pentateuch and Haftorahs: Hebrew Text, English Translation and Commentary" by J.H. Hertz
A classic work offering extensive commentary on the Torah and Haftorahs, with a focus on the significance of the promises made in Parashah Vayeira.
On Besa and Albanian Culture
"Besa: Muslims Who Saved Jews in World War II" by Norman H. Gershman
A poignant exploration of how Albanians honored Besa by protecting Jews during the Holocaust, featuring stories and photographs of those who were saved.
"The Kanun of Lekë Dukagjini" translated by Leonard Fox
An English translation of the traditional Albanian code of laws, providing a deep understanding of the cultural and legal framework that includes the concept of Besa.
"Albanian Traditional Law: The Kanun" by Ismail Kadare
A detailed study of the Kanun and its impact on Albanian society, including the role of Besa in maintaining social order and honor.
On Teaching Cultural Values and Promises
"Educating for Character: How Our Schools Can Teach Respect and Responsibility" by Thomas Lickona
A guide for educators on teaching values such as loyalty, respect, and responsibility, relevant to the principles of Besa and promises.
"The Moral Compass: Stories for a Life's Journey" edited by William J. Bennett
A collection of stories and essays that illustrate moral principles, including the importance of keeping promises, which can be used in the classroom.
"Character Matters: How to Help Our Children Develop Good Judgment, Integrity, and Other Essential Virtues" by Thomas Lickona
Practical advice for teachers and parents on fostering virtues like honesty and loyalty, aligning with the cultural teachings of Besa.
On Effective Teaching Strategies
"Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die" by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
An exploration of what makes ideas memorable and persuasive, useful for understanding and applying different persuasive methods in teaching.
"The Art of Persuasion: How to Influence People and Get What You Want" by Bob Burg
A guide on various persuasive techniques, including hyperbole, repetition, and rhetorical questions, which can enhance teaching strategies.
"Classroom Instruction That Works: Research-Based Strategies for Increasing Student Achievement" by Robert J. Marzano, Debra J. Pickering, and Jane E. Pollock
A resource for educators on effective teaching strategies, incorporating methods to make lessons on promises and cultural values impactful.
These readings will provide a deeper understanding of the themes discussed, offer practical teaching strategies, and explore the cultural significance of promises both in the context of Parashah Vayeira and the Albanian tradition of Besa.
Documentary Films and Oral History Projects
1. "Besa: The Promise" (Documentary)
· This documentary tells the story of Albanian Muslims who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust. It provides a powerful visual representation of the concept of Besa.
2. "Rescue in Albania" (Documentary)
· This film documents the stories of Albanians who helped save Jews during World War II, offering insight into the cultural importance of Besa.
· Available on various streaming platforms.
3. "Besa: A Code of Honor" (Oral History Project)
· An oral history project that collects and shares personal stories about the practice of Besa in Albania, providing firsthand accounts of its impact on individual lives and communities.
· Available through local cultural organizations and universities.
Online Discussion Forums or Webinars Hosted by Experts
1. My Jewish Learning - Parashah Vayeira Discussion Forum
· An online forum where experts and participants discuss various aspects of Parashah Vayeira, including the promises made by G_d and their implications.
2. Webinars on the Cultural Heritage of Besa
· Hosted by the Albanian Institute New York, these webinars feature experts discussing the historical and cultural significance of Besa in Albanian society.
3. Holocaust Education Webinars by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
· These webinars often include discussions on how different cultures, including Albanians, helped save Jews during the Holocaust.
· United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Webinars
Virtual Museum Tours or Exhibitions
1. Yad Vashem: The World Holocaust Remembrance Center - Virtual Tours
· Offers virtual tours of exhibitions that highlight the stories of Jewish rescue during the Holocaust, including the contributions of Albanians.
2. Museum of Jewish Heritage - A Living Memorial to the Holocaust: Virtual Exhibitions
· Features virtual exhibitions that explore the narratives of those who were saved and those who saved them, including through the lens of Besa.
· Museum of Jewish Heritage Virtual Exhibitions
3. National Museum of History, Tirana - Virtual Tours
· Provides virtual tours of exhibits related to Albanian history and culture, including the Kanun of Lekë Dukagjini and the tradition of Besa.
· National Museum of History, Tirana
These supplementary resources will enrich the understanding of the cultural, historical, and educational contexts of the topics discussed, providing a multi-dimensional approach to learning about Besa, promises, and their significance in both Albanian and biblical traditions.
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