PART 1 (250 words): According to the dominant understanding of Judaism, whether you are born into it or whether you join by choice as a convert, you can never stop being Jewish. When it comes to religion, is choice or obligation more important? Is the answer different for different religions?
PART 2 (250-300 words): Choose ONE of the following stories from the Hebrew Bible:
The first creation narrative (Genesis 1:1-2:4)
The Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9)
Jacob wrestling with the angel (Genesis 32:22-32)
Research some Jewish interpretations of the story you chose, and then write a summary and analysis of these interpretations: what did you find particularly interesting or surprising about them? How do they change your perspective on the text?