Limmud

Limmud is a global, volunteer-driven Jewish learning movement and festival. The name derives from the Hebrew limmud, meaning study or learning.

The movement began in the United Kingdom in 1980 as a weekend conference designed to broaden Jewish education beyond traditional synagogue settings and to bring together Jews from diverse denominations. Since then, Limmud has grown into a worldwide network of local and regional events run by volunteers, with a philosophy of inclusive, participatory learning.

Limmud events typically offer a broad program of multi-session activities on topics such as Jewish texts, history, culture, music, film, philosophy, and social action. Sessions are often led by attendees, scholars, artists, and community leaders, reflecting a pluralistic and egalitarian approach. There is no single denomination or prescribed agenda; programming emphasizes curiosity, dialogue, and accessibility for people of varying levels of prior knowledge.

The Limmud model centers on participant-driven learning, cross-communal dialogue, and open access. Local organizers operate autonomously, though they may participate in international gatherings and share best practices. A flagship gathering in the United Kingdom, along with numerous regional Limmud events worldwide, anchors the network and helps distribute its regional and international programming.

Overall, Limmud is described as a platform for lifelong learning, creative engagement with Jewish identity, and community building. It continues to organize events around the world, inviting people of all backgrounds to participate in Jewish learning, culture, and conversation.