“Israel in Crisis: What’s Happening and Why” is the focus of an adult education series offered by Temple Beth Shalom of the West Valley in October.

It is open to people of all faiths.

Rabbi Dana Evan Kaplan will lead the education series 10 to 11 a.m. Mondays, Oct. 2, 9, 16 and 23 at Temple Beth Shalom, 12202 N. 101st Ave.

Kaplan lived in Jerusalem during the years of his rabbinic studies, and he visited Jerusalem in both July 2022 and July 2023.

“It is almost unbelievable that the World Happiness Report found that Israel was the fourth happiest country in the world just a short time ago,” Kaplan said. “And yet the country now appears on the verge of civil war amidst internal collapse. A country that was a stable western-style democracy just a few months ago seems to be tottering on the edge of dictatorship.”

The series will start with historical background information, including Israel’s government structure.

Kaplan will focus on current issues such as judicial reform efforts, the settlers, the ultra-orthodox, the moderates and the left, as well as the threat of brain/income drain in the country. In the last session, he will focus on the future of Israel.

Cost for the four-week series is $35 for non-members.

Call the TBS office at 623-977-3240 to register for classes. Registration deadline is noon Thursday, Sept. 28.

Visit tbsaz.org.