tuesday | 27

“In the Footsteps of the Philistines: Excavations at Tel Zafit/Biblical Gat.” With archaeology professor Jill Katz. At Temple Beth Torah, 42000 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont. 8 p.m. Free. (510) 656-7141.

tuesday | 3

“Life as a Soldier in Israel.” With former Israeli paratrooper Michael Bauer. Sponsor: Oakland Hadassah. At Temple Beth Abraham, 327 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland. 12 p.m. $6.50. (510) 531-5994.

wednesday | 4

“Crash Course in Jewish History: From Ezra to Einstein.” First in a four-part series. With Rabbi Josh Strulowitz. At Adath Israel, 1851 Noriega St., S.F. 8 p.m. Free. (415) 564-5665.

thursday | 5

“The Nili: Spies, Great Britain and the Old Yishuv.” With Riva Gambert of the Jewish Community Federation of the Greater East Bay. At Temple Beth Sholom, 642 Dolores Ave., San Leandro. 10:15 a.m. $7 (510) 839-2900 ext. 233.

sunday | 8

“Smart Choices for the Second Half of Life: What You Need to Know to Care for Yourself and Those You Love.” An afternoon of workshops for seniors. Keynote speaker: Rabbi Earl Grollman. At Congregation Emanu-El, 2 Lake St. S.F. 1 p.m. (415) 751-2541 ext. 138.