Presence And Presents
Posted onOon Parshat Lech-Lecha, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses Avraham’s legacy of faith.
This series of classes on the Parsha offers an eclectic selection of lectures on the weekly Torah portion spanning the introductory level to highly advanced in-depth studies of selected passages weaving interpretations from Early and Late Commentators as well as Chassidic and Mussar Masters.
In Parsha Journeys, Rabbi Teller presents the complete storyline of the first two chapters of each of the weekly parshiyot (Torah portions), in addition to insights into some of the more famous events discussed. In the Living The Parsaha series, Rebbetzin Smiles presents selected topics in the weekly Parsha, with a focus on character development. Early and Later Commentators, including excerpts from classical works produced by the Chassidic and Mussar Movements, are woven together to present a new insight into one’s life as an inspired Torah Jew In Chassidut on the Parsha, Rabbi H. Reichman synthesizes the comments of the Midrash, the Talmud, and Hasidic thought and connects them to contemporary life, applying the lessons of the Parsha to modern issues and challenges.
Oon Parshat Lech-Lecha, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses Avraham’s legacy of faith.
On Parshat Noach, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the covenant of the rainbow that Hashem made after the Great Flood.
Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses how the licentiousness of the daughters of Moav lured the Jews into worshiping the Baal Peor.
On Parshat Chukas, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the failed attack of the Amorites on the Jews and the song of gratitude the Jews sang for the Well of Miriam.
On Parashat Shelach, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the Sin of the Spies and how it led to exile.
On Parshat Behaloscha, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the Levites inauguration to the service of the Mishkan.
On Parshat Behar – Bechukosai, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses atonement of sins and the connection to our forefathers.
On Parshat Emor, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses that how much we try to accomplish in our service of Hashem is less important than the wholeness and perfection of mind toward that service.
On Parshat Acharei Mot – Kedushim, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the prohibition of orlah.
Mrs. Shira smile discuses Parshat Tazria – Metzora.
On Parshat Shmini, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the idea that first a Jew must dedicate himself to do the will of Hashem. Only then will blessing flow from above.
On Parshat Ki Tisa, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses Moshe’s request to Hashem, “Show me now Your glory.” The class examines the nature of divine acts and man’s true purpose on this world.
On Parshat Teruma, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the significance of the Shulchan that was positioned near the northern wall of the Tabernacle.
on Parshat Mishpatim, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses how studying the laws of damages leads to kindness and perfection of character.
On Parshat Yisro, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the first commandment, “Onochi Hashem Elokecha,” and the different facets of emunah.
on Parshat Beshalach, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the nature of Miriam’s song at the splitting of the Red Sea.
On Parshat Bo, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses how Torah and the world parallel each other, specifically as it relates to the exodus of Egypt which occurred in the spring time.
On Parshat Vaeira, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the equality and humility of Moshe and Aharon.
on Parshat Shemot Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses Moshe’s reluctance to take on the role of redeeming the Jews from Egypt.
On Parshat Vayechi, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses Yosef’s oath to Yaakov to bury him in the land of Israel.
Mrs. Shira smile discusses Parshat Vayigash and Yosef’s surprising revelation to his brothers.
Mrs. Shira Smile discusses the significance of Yaakov Avinu’s sinew being targeted during the struggle with the angel of Esav in Parshat Vayishlach.
On Parshat Vayeitzei, Mr. Shira Smiles examines the verse, “And Yaaakov departed from Be’er Sheva and went towards Charan,” and the impression a righteous person has on his surroundings.
Mrs. Shira Smile discusses forgiveness and fortitude from within Parshat Toldot.
On Parshat Chayei Sara, Mrs. Shira Smiles talks about Avraham Avinu at the end of his life.
on Parshat Vayeira, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the concept of Hashem Yireh, the name Avraham gave the site of Akeidat Yitzchak.
On Parshat Lech Lecha, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses Sarah’s relationship with Hagar and its ramifications for future generations.
On Parshat Noach, Mrs. Shira Smiles delves into the episode of the dove bringing Noach the olive branch and its symbolism for our lives.
On Parshat Chukat, Mrs. Shira Smiles examines the attack of Amalek on the Jews. Amalek symbolizes the yetzer horo whose purpose is to lead us to self destruction. Mrs. Smiles discusses how the Jews were awakened to teshuva and how we too can strengthen ourselves to fight against the evil inclination.