In Nach this week, students in Y13 and Y14A examined the big picture of Megillat Eicha by preparing presentations on one of the three topics below:

THE HISTORY OF EICHA

Though written as poetry and not a story of events that took place in the time of the Churban HaBayit still manages to present numerous facts tidbits of information that help us understand what was happening before and afterwards. What is some of the historical evidence latent in the descriptions of the Eicha? What does the Eicha teach us about the political, social and personal tragedies that took place? Who suffered? How did they suffer? What was the enemies attitude? Besides bringing at least 5 pieces of evidence that relate to any or all of these questions, you should also discuss the problems with learning about history from a book like אEicha. In what way/s is the Megillah a valid source of history and in what way/s is it not?

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF EICHA

Especially after 9/11 and the continuing “War on Terror”, the psychology of trauma and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) have been popular discussions in countless contexts throughout the U.S. A google search of the psychological symptoms of experiencing trauma and methods to cope with it produces many fascinating results. Find a site that describe these symptoms and coping strategies, and: (1) Find at lest four examples of the symptoms described by psychologists expressed in Eicha. (2) Compare and contrast the website’s coping strategies with what you find in Megillat Eicha. Does the megillah present ways to cope? In what way/s does it refuse to cope and move on? Why?

THE THEOLOGY OF EICHA

Where is G-d when people are suffering? This question has bothered millions of believers across various faiths for generations. While not directly answering the question, Megillat Eicha presents different perspectives on how G-d is involved and should/is asked to be involved in the experience of individuals and a nation that is suffering. What are the different ways in which the Megillah relates to Hashem? How is Hashem involved in tragedy and bringing suffering to people? How does the sufferer use his relationship with Hashem as a means of coping with his tragedy?

Here are just a few examples of the great work students’ submitted:

Navi eicha powerpoint PTSD – Zack Ness

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